The St. George ribbon, worn to commemorate the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, was first introduced in the 18th century as the highest military decoration for valor.
Following Russia's annexation of the Black Sea peninsula Crimea in March last year, the tricolor ribbon has also become an almost obligatory accessory for pro-Kremlin patriots.
With 16 days left until the 70th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany, the Volontery70 volunteer organization has launched a mass campaign to distribute more than 20 million St. George ribbons across Russia.
The Moscow Times took to the streets of the Russian capital to ask people what the ribbon means to them.
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