Russia to Hold Victory Day Parade Without Tanks or Missiles for First Time in 80 Years

Kathmandu. Russian media, citing officials, reported that tanks and missiles will not be seen at Russia's Victory Day parade after 80 years.

For the first time since the start of the Ukraine war in 2022, Russia will hold its Victory Day parade on May 9 without military equipment. The Ministry of Defense cited the current operational situation as the reason for celebrating the victory procession without any equipment, but did not provide details.

Russia is celebrating the 81st anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany in World War II on May 9. The Russian Ministry of Defense has announced that military equipment will not be displayed at this year's Victory Day military show in Moscow's Red Square.

Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in 2022, Russian tanks, missile systems, and other heavy military vehicles will not be included in the parade this year. This parade is usually seen as a major display of Russia's military power.

The Ministry of Defense said in a statement, "This decision has been made in view of the current operational situation. The reasons behind it have not been detailed."

Cadets from various military educational institutions and personnel from some branches of the army will participate in the parade, while the traditional aerial flyover will continue.

Victory Day is considered Russia's most important national holiday. Russia commemorates its victory over Nazi Germany in World War II as the Great Patriotic War.

The war, which claimed millions of lives in the Soviet Union, has left a deep impact on the country's collective memory.

President Vladimir Putin has made Victory Day a major symbol of national pride and power during his long tenure. They are also using the context of this historic victory to justify the war in Ukraine.

Last year's parade was grand, with over 11,500 soldiers and more than 180 military vehicles participating. It also showcased intercontinental ballistic missile Yars, tanks, and weapons used in the Ukraine war. Many world leaders, such as Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, were also present at that time.

However, the parade was already postponed in 2023.