Russia’s Plans for Victory Day Parade Adjusted
Russia’s Defense Ministry revealed that next week’s Victory Day parade won’t feature tanks, missiles, or heavy military equipment, pointing to the “current operational situation” in Ukraine as the reason for this decision.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that this change was due to perceived threats of “terrorist activities” coming from Ukraine. “All measures are being taken to minimize the risk,” he explained.
Victory Day, which honors the triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II, has become an event for President Vladimir Putin to promote a tailored historical narrative, suggesting that Russia played a predominant role in defeating Germany. This narrative has gained traction particularly since 2022, especially as allies in Europe and the U.S. have criticized Putin following his invasion of Ukraine. During these events, Putin has often likened Ukrainians to the Nazis, positioning his government as the rightful heirs to the heroes of the Great Patriotic War. Ironically, the conflict in Ukraine has now outlasted the war with Germany.
This year, Victory Day presents Putin with a critical opportunity. Military showcases typically draw attendance from allies like China and North Korea, and while some have anticipated grander displays in 2023 and 2024, the 80th anniversary in 2025 is expected to be significant to demonstrate Russia’s capability to recover from losses incurred in Ukraine. However, the absence of substantial military hardware at this year’s event is likely to be a point of embarrassment for him.
Not only will this year’s parade lack “columns of military equipment” on Red Square, but there will also be fewer soldiers participating. Notably, cadets from military academies will be absent as well. The last time Moscow held a parade without military vehicles was in 2007.
Reports suggest that rumors about a scaled-back parade were circulating, fueled by concerns regarding possible Ukrainian drone attacks. Pro-Putin commentators have speculated that the event might be disrupted, potentially leading to panic if air raid sirens sound. Observers noted the lack of usual preparations for a large-scale event.
“Ukraine’s ability to strike deep into Russian territory has certainly increased,” noted Kirill Martynov, editor-in-chief of a Russian independent newspaper. He remarked that a breach of air defense during a parade attended by high-profile guests poses a tangible risk.
As for the ongoing war, many are uncertain about its endpoint or the circumstances surrounding it. Even among supporters, disillusionment is growing, and a scaled-down parade might not resonate well.
On the eve of the parade, President Putin announced a 72-hour ceasefire with Ukraine set to begin on May 8, citing “humanitarian reasons.” Many in Ukraine dismissed this as mere theatrics tied to the parade.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiha emphasized, “If Russia truly desires peace, an immediate ceasefire is essential.” He questioned the rationale for waiting until May 8 and suggested that a ceasefire could be organized sooner.
Furthermore, an adviser to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy remarked that Putin’s ceasefire proposal minimized Ukraine’s intentions, asserting that there would never be plans to attack civilians at such a large public event.
It was also reported that a significant internet and mobile blackout would accompany the ceasefire, purportedly to thwart targets within Ukraine.
According to a report, Putin intends to provide “live coverage of front-line troops in Ukraine, Russian nuclear forces, aerospace endeavors, and naval ship crews” instead of allowing mobile phone access during the parade.
