Russia holds traditional parade without tank exposure, sign that war is not going according to plan

Meanwhile, soldiers are conducting evidence of the traditional Victory Day parade, marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, reports BBC, broadcast Periscope.

But this year, the May 9th ceremony is different. For the first time in nearly two decades, neither tanks nor ballistic missiles will be exposed at Red Square. Only soldiers will attend the parade.

This contraction of the ceremony is seen as a clear indication of the current situation: Russia's war in Ukraine is not going according to plan. Russian MP Yevgeny Popov justified lack of tanks, saying they are engaged on the front. We need more on the battlefield than at Red Square,” he said.

Critics, however, argue that the lack of weapons in such a symbolic event is embarrassing to the Kremlin, especially after more than four years of war without clear victory. Russia began its total invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and continues to accuse the West of escalating conflict.

Meanwhile, war is increasingly felt within Russian territory. Fear attacks and rockets from Ukraine have hit Russian cities, including areas near Moscow. Russian authorities have warned strict security measures during May 9th, including restrictions on the mobile internet, citing the threat of air strikes.

Citizens' reactions are mixed. Some understand the decision for security reasons, while others view it as a sign of fear. The Parade is a symbol of our strength. The lack of tanks does not deliver a good message,” is expressed by a Moscow resident.

Although the parade in the capital has been reduced, commemorations of 27 million Soviets killed in World War II are being held throughout the country. In towns and villages, citizens place flowers near memorials, while soldiers returning from the front participate in memorial ceremonies.

However, beyond the symbolic <x0-fitores”, today's reality seems more complex. Long struggle, economic costs and internal restrictions are creating fatigue in populations, while support for Russian leadership is reportedly on the decline.

This year's parade, although smaller, is sending a strong message: challenges in Ukraine are being reflected directly in the heart of Moscow.