Moscow to hold scaled-back Victory Day parade as Ukraine truce kicks in

Email: online@newsofbahrain.com

MOSCOW: Moscow held its most scaled-back Victory Day parade in recent history, marking the 81st anniversary of the Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany. For the first time in nearly two decades, the traditional display of military hardware including tanks, missiles, and armored vehicles was entirely absent from Red Square.

The decision to limit the event to marching infantry and an aerial flyover comes amid heightened security concerns. The Kremlin cited "terrorist threats" and the ‘operational situation’ following several long-range Ukrainian drone strikes deep within Russian territory. 

To prevent disruptions, authorities also implemented an unprecedented total shutdown of mobile internet services across the capital during the ceremony.

The parade coincided with a fragile three-day truce negotiated as part of wider diplomatic efforts. Both Russia and Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire through May 11, which included a significant exchange of 1,000 prisoners of war from each side.

While President Vladimir Putin addressed the troops as usual, the lack of hardware and a sparse roster of foreign dignitaries highlighted Russia's current pressures. Analysts suggest the downscaling was a ‘painful’ but necessary choice to protect the capital and avoid highlighting military losses during the ongoing conflict.