The Guard of Honor of the Chinese People's Liberation Army participates in the parade at the Red Square in Moscow marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War on May 9, 2025. Photo: VCG

On Friday, the Red Square in Moscow, Russia was adorned with vibrant displays of military pride and historical reverence during the Victory Day military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. Among the highlights was the impeccable formation of the Guard of Honor of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) , whose disciplined march and striking presence captivated onlookers. 

The Chinese national flag, proudly escorted by the PLA contingent, fluttered alongside Russian banners, symbolizing the two countries' shared history and camaraderie. The sight of Chinese military elements, including the resonant singing of patriotic songs, added a distinctive and warmly received dimension to the grand ceremony.

According to CCTV News, a 119-member PLA Guard of Honor contingent had completed three rehearsals in Moscow, showcasing the exemplary demeanor and professionalism of Chinese soldiers. During these sessions, the soldiers performed powerful military songs, earning enthusiastic applause from overseas Chinese students and local Russian residents. 

The appearance of the PLA Guard of Honor stirred excitement on the streets of Moscow during these practice sessions. Crowds cheered, with many chanting, "We don't follow influencers or celebrities, only the Chinese honor guards!"

Cui Hangteng, an officer of the PLA Guard of Honor, talked about his experience with the CCTV News: "As I escorted the five-star red flag through the streets of Moscow, I saw countless overseas Chinese waving national flags. It made me realize that the flag represents faith, direction, and the dreams and hopes of countless Chinese people. This is the warmest strength we've felt during this mission." 

He added that singing "Ode to the Motherland" alongside their overseas compatriots filled the team with immense national pride and honor.

Liu Chao, another PLA Guard of Honor officer, told media that in order to reflect the deep friendship between China and Russia, the contingent learned to sing Russian classics such as "The Sacred War" and "Kalinka." During the parade, they shouted in Russian, "Long live China-Russia friendship! Long live world peace!" in Red Square. 

Liu emphasized that the invitation to participate in the Russian parade was a profound tribute to the shared anti-fascist legacy of China and Russia, a solemn defense of historical justice in World War II, and a resolute declaration of commitment to global peace.

In an interview with the CCTV News, military commentator Du Wenlong noted that participating in foreign military parades is a vital aspect of military diplomacy. The PLA Guard of Honor's frequent involvement in major celebrations in friendly nations like Russia and Belarus showcases China's image on multiple fronts, enhancing mutual trust and cooperation. 

During the turbulent years of the global anti-fascist struggle, The Yellow River Cantata, born on the Eastern Front , inspired countless Chinese to resist foreign aggression, sounding a powerful call for national salvation. Similarly, "The Sacred War," regarded as one of Russia's most significant musical compositions, has resonated deeply with people. Every May 9, its majestic melody echoes across Red Square during the Victory Day parade, guiding the formations that inherit the glory of their predecessors, according to the Xinhua News Agency. These two musical epics, stirring the soul of their respective nations, chronicle the radiant history of mutual support between the two peoples in their fierce struggle against evil.

Global Times

President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow by special plane to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War of the Soviet Union on May 7, 2025. Photo: VCG

The Guard of Honor of the Chinese People's Liberation Army takes part in a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, in Minsk, Belarus, on May 3, 2025. Photo: VCG

 

The Guard of Honor of the Chinese People's Liberation Army takes part in a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, in Moscow, Russia, on May 3, 2025. Photo: VCG

 

Overseas Chinese and students in Moscow, Russia, take a group photo holding the Chinese national flag on May 3, 2025. Photo: VCG

 

Russian Air Force Su-25 jets fly over Red Square during the Victory Day military parade in Moscow, Russia, on May 9, 2025. Photo: VCG