Russia scales back Victory Day celebrations amid ongoing Ukrainian attacks

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May 9 to Mark Reduced Military Presence at Kremlin Parade

The annual Victory Day parade on May 9, commemorating Russia’s World War II victory over Nazi Germany, will feature a scaled-down military display. For the first time in nearly two decades, tanks, missiles, and junior cadets will not be part of the procession.

According to Oleg Ignatov, senior Russia analyst at Crisis Group, “May 9 is the main holiday of the year for modern Russia.” The Kremlin has cited concerns over security threats from Ukraine as the reason for reducing military equipment. Personnel from higher-level military academies will still participate in the parade on foot, while an aerobatic show and Sukhoi Su-25 fighter jets will perform.

Olha Polishchuk, research manager at Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED), notes that drones have become a primary means of attack for both Ukraine and Russia. “Drones are relatively cheap, modifiable, and can travel long distances,” she explains. Since 2025, drone strikes have overshadowed other attacks.

Security measures in Moscow have been tightened since Ukrainian armed forces began sending drones to the city in 2023. Mobile internet has been shut off periodically in the days leading up to the event due to “security reasons.” The Kremlin’s air defense system includes short-range surface-to-air missile systems, other missile systems, small arms, and electronic warfare systems.

While Ukraine rarely targets Moscow directly, the Victory Day parade poses a risk due to the concentration of troops and vehicles. Authorities are concerned about the potential for groups of people using small drones to attack military targets inside Russia.

The Kremlin has referred to “the current operational situation” and threats from “Ukrainian terrorist activity.” The reduced military presence at the parade is intended to minimize risks, but the event still carries a high level of security risk.

Source: Al Jazeera