Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted triumph in his annual Victory Day address, emphasizing that victory has always belonged to Russia. The event, commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, saw tight security in Moscow with bodyguards carrying protective gear and what appeared to be Putin’s nuclear briefcase.
Putin, in power for over twenty-five years, traditionally uses Victory Day as a platform to display Russia’s military strength and garner support for military endeavors like the actions in Ukraine. During the parade, Putin praised Russian forces involved in Ukraine, stating confidently, “Victory has always been and will be ours.”
Drawing parallels between the Soviet victory over the Nazis and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Putin highlighted the inspiration drawn by current soldiers from past triumphs. Notably, this year’s parade saw a departure from the usual display of heavy weaponry due to security concerns related to potential Ukrainian threats.
Authorities attributed the change in parade format to the “current operational situation,” citing the need to safeguard against possible attacks. Increased security measures included restrictions on mobile internet access, a ban on drones filming the event, and sniper presence to deter potential threats.
In a deviation from tradition, Putin opted for an armored bus over the customary walk to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier post-parade. Despite reports of heightened security measures and his alleged bunker stays, Putin’s spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reassured that no security threats were detected during the event.
Following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s decree that Ukraine would not target the ceremonial parade, Peskov confirmed the absence of any security breaches. Putin’s absence from the customary walk was not indicative of security concerns, as reiterated by Peskov.
