Russia to Hold Victory Day Parade Without Heavy Equipment

Russia will again mark its victory over Nazi Germany with the traditional Victory Day parade on Moscow’s Red Square this year, but without the usual display of heavy military equipment.

The defense ministry said the decision was linked to the current “operational situation”, an indirect reference to the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The 9 May parade, one of Russia’s most important public holidays, will therefore take place in a different format from previous years.

Instead of tanks and missile systems, the event will mainly feature soldiers and cadets from military academies. A flypast by military aircraft is also planned, with planes expected to leave trails in the colors of the Russian flag.

According to available information, the focus will shift to symbolism and the presentation of the military branches involved in the war in Ukraine, which the Kremlin continues to describe as a “special military operation”.

(reuters, mja)