Russia Celebrates Victory Day And Organises Parade Amid Tight Security Following Drone Attacks On Kremlin

Every year on May 9, Russia marks the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II with a parade of troops and sophisticated military hardware and public celebration.

People attended the "Immortal Regiment" march organized by the Russian Language Instructors and Translators Association as part of the 9 May Victory Day celebrations at the Russian Embassy in Ankara, Turkiye on May 06, 2023.

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Russia celebrates the anniversary of its victory in World War II over Nazi Germany viz. Victory Day, amidst the recent drone attacks on the Kremlin citadel. It is organising a parade in Red Square with beefed-up security as Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to deliver a speech there, where he will be joined by leaders of several ex-Soviet republics. Victory Day is one of the most important public holidays in Russia. On this day, people commemorate the sacrifices of the Soviet Union during the 'Great Patriotic War of 1941-45' which resulted in the deaths of 27 million citizens, reported news agency Reuters.

Every year on May 9, Russia marks the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II with a parade of troops and sophisticated military hardware and public celebration.

With Russia losing thousands of soldiers in the 15-month war with Ukraine, this anniversary becomes even more important and emotional. 

Putin, his Defence minister, and other senior officials will review the parade at Red Square, which usually includes tanks, intercontinental missile launchers, and marching troops.

Authorities have cancelled the traditional flyover while citing the increased security concerns caused partly by the drone attacks. As per reports, lesser soldiers and less military hardware have joined this year's parade due to the Ukraine conflict taking a heavy toll on both men and equipment.

Russian authorities have even cancelled the "Immortal Regiment" processions where people carry portraits of their relatives who fought in the wars against the Nazis.

When Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was asked about the cancellation of events, he blamed Ukraine while saying, "When we have to deal with a state that is de facto a sponsor of terrorism, then it is better to take precautionary measures."

Meanwhile, Ukraine which is expected to launch a counteroffensive to retake land, denied any involvement in the drone attack on Kremlin on May 3 which was being termed as an attempt to assassinate President Vladimir Putin.

Putin on several occasions had likened the Ukraine war to the challenge the Soviet Union faced during Hitler's 1941 invasion. He now casts this as a battle against "Nazi"-inspired nationalists. Kyiv has termed this as absurd and accuses Russia of behaving like Nazi Germany as it waged an unprovoked war of aggression and seized Ukrainian territory illegally.