Russia's Victory Day parade scaled back, no heavy weapons for first time in decades

On Saturday, Russia celebrated its annual Victory Day parade in Moscow's Red Square, marking the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. President Vladimir Putin led the ceremony under heightened security, coinciding with a US-negotiated three-day ceasefire aimed at minimizing potential Ukrainian disruptions. Notably, this year’s parade was devoid of tanks, missiles, or heavy weaponry for the first time in nearly 20 years, featuring only a customary flyover of military jets. Officials cited the 'current operational situation' and the risk of Ukrainian strikes as reasons for this reduced display, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirming increased security measures. Putin, in power for over 25 years, has traditionally utilized Victory Day to showcase military might and garner support for Russia's ongoing military involvement in Ukraine, which has now entered its fifth year.