The Kremlin has announced that this year's Victory Day commemoration in Moscow will be significantly scaled back, omitting the traditional display of tanks, heavy military equipment, and cadet corps.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov attributed the decision to a 'terrorist threat' from Ukraine, claiming that all necessary measures are being taken to minimize danger during the event.
While the parade will still proceed in Red Square, the absence of armored columns—a staple of the event since Vladimir Putin revived the practice in 2008—marks a notable departure from the display of strength typically intended to project Russian defense capabilities.
The move follows a series of Ukrainian drone strikes and long-range attacks targeting Russian energy infrastructure and military assets, some occurring hundreds of miles from the border.
Pro-Kremlin military bloggers have openly discussed the risks of hosting the event, noting that a successful Ukrainian strike during the proceedings would deal a significant blow to Moscow's image.
Despite the Kremlin's rhetoric labeling the strikes as 'terrorist activity,' Kyiv maintains that it is targeting legitimate military and industrial facilities that support the ongoing invasion.
As Moscow prepares for the holiday, authorities are also implementing strict mobile communication restrictions, further highlighting the security anxieties currently gripping the Russian capital.
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