Amid Ukraine’s daring assaults, Russia scales back Victory Day celebrations
Al Jazeera • • world
Key Points:
- May 9, Victory Day, is Russia's most significant holiday, commemorating the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, traditionally marked by a grand military parade on Moscow’s Red Square.
- Due to heightened security concerns amid the war in Ukraine, this year’s parade will exclude tanks, missiles, and junior cadets, with only military academy personnel marching on foot and an aerial aerobatic show proceeding as usual.
- Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian territory have increased, targeting critical infrastructure and prompting tightened security measures in Moscow, including mobile internet shutdowns and reinforced air defenses.
- The Victory Day parade remains a potent symbol of Russian national pride and military strength, though critics argue it has been politicized to justify current aggressive actions in Ukraine.
- Ukraine views the Russian celebration as a distortion of history and discourages foreign dignitaries from attending, while Russia seeks to mitigate risks of drone or sabotage attacks during the event.
