NOTE: Before answering the following questions, watch the videos under “Resources” below.

1. List the who, what, where and when of the news item.

2. How many military personnel took part in Russia’s Victory Day parade?

3. When did Russia first hold Victory Day parades marking victory over Nazi Germany?

4. What does the reporter imply is one of President Putin’s reasons for the commemoration?

5. How important are the annual commemorations to Russians?

6. How many Soviet soldiers and civilians are estimated to have died in WWII?

7. Why do you think Russians who might not support Vladimir Putin would still place such great importance on this commemoration?

8. Last year - 2020 - marked the 75th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe day). Due to covid-19, all events were canceled. It was reported this year that “due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, there were no major public gatherings to mark VE day” in the UK or France. Yet Russia held a huge parade in Moscow with thousands of soldiers and some spectators. No masks. (Watch the videos.) - Also, parades took place in dozens of cities across Russia. What do you think of the difference in commemorations of this important day to both Russia and Europe?