Limited parade in Moscow: Red Square without heavy weapons

Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow will host a reduced parade in Red Square, without the display of heavy weapons, which, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense, is a consequence of the “current operational situation”. Also, fewer foreign leaders will be present than in previous years, and international journalists will largely have to follow the event through recordings of Russian state media.

Due to heightened security concerns, many foreign journalists have been told they will not be able to attend World War II Victory Day commemorations over Nazi Germany.

– Putin wants to act as a person in control and make the Russian state look strong, and this is not a message he would normally want to send – said Sam Greene, a professor of Russian politics at King’s College London, evaluating the situation as “unusual” for the Russian leader.

Safety versus tradition

This year, the Kremlin appears to be prioritizing security over the traditional display of military force. The parade is being held at a time of intensified Ukrainian attacks deep inside Russian territory, especially on oil infrastructure. Among the incidents was a drone attack on a residential building in the western part of Moscow, which further strengthened security measures.

The day before the parade, US President Donald Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to a three-day truce from May 9 to 11, including a cessation of hostilities and a “1,000 for 1,000” prisoner exchange, which was confirmed by the Kremlin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Zelensky said that the exchange of prisoners is a priority, stressing that “Red Square is less important than the lives of Ukrainian prisoners.”

However, security measures remain high in Moscow. Anti-aircraft systems are visible on the streets, while city decorations in the colors of the Russian flag and symbols of military tradition are still present.

The Kremlin rejected claims that foreign journalists were stripped of their accreditation, saying the number of media representatives was limited due to the reduced scale of the event. However, several foreign journalists, including CNN, reported that their participation was subsequently prevented.

Fewer guests

Unlike previous years, when numerous world leaders attended the parade, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, this year’s guest list is much smaller. Russia’s allies are among those present, while some European leaders will not attend the main event.

The parade is held in an atmosphere of economic challenges in Russia and increased internet restrictions, which the authorities justify with security reasons.

On the eve of the commemoration, some residents of Moscow expressed their concern and desire for an end to the war, while part of the public stated that everyday life is becoming more and more difficult due to the consequences of the conflict and restrictions.

This year’s parade thus reflects security concerns and political tensions more than the usual display of military power that has been its trademark for years.

(Vijesti.ba)