On May 3, 2023, a march known as the ‘Immortal Regiment’ took place in Washington, D.C., organized by Russian nationals. This event prompted a counter-protest by Ukrainian and American activists, who aimed to draw attention to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
The Russian march occurred near the World War II Memorial, where participants gathered to honor relatives who fought in the war, referred to in Russian history as the ‘Great Patriotic War.’ Many attendees displayed Soviet symbols, which have become controversial in light of current geopolitical tensions.
In response to the Russian gathering, Ukrainian and American demonstrators assembled nearby, carrying flags of both nations. Their protest was aimed at condemning the march and highlighting the implications of Russia’s ongoing military actions in Ukraine.
“A group of fools. Excuse my bluntness, but these people are simply ignorant. They spread propaganda. Seeing the Russian flag, as if the Soviet flag is not offensive enough, is disheartening. It is shameful to witness such support for an authoritarian regime that invades another country here in Washington, the capital of the free world,” stated Carter Smith, a student and participant in the counter-protest.
Security for both the march and the counter-protest was managed by multiple federal agencies, including police, the National Guard, and representatives from the Department of Justice.
The ‘Immortal Regiment’ events, which occur both in Russia and internationally, are often viewed as propaganda initiatives controlled and funded by the Kremlin. However, British intelligence reports indicated that these marches were not held in Russia during 2023-2024, citing potential public discontent regarding the war in Ukraine as a contributing factor.
While Russian activists have organized these marches abroad annually in early May, the event in Washington had not taken place since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine until it was announced for May 3, 2025.
The 'Immortal Regiment' march in Washington, D.C., on May 3, 2023, sparked significant protests from Ukrainian and American activists. The event highlighted ongoing tensions related to Russia's military actions in Ukraine and was met with a strong security presence.