May 9 is a venerated date on the Russian calendar. The anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II is usually commemorated with a grand military parade outside the Kremlin, on Moscow’s Red Square.

“For modern Russia, it’s the main holiday of the year,” said Oleg Ignatov, senior Russia analyst at Crisis Group. “There are two main holidays in Russia, the ninth of May and the New Year.”

This year, however, for the first time in nearly 20 years, there will be no tanks, missiles or junior cadets in the parade. The decision to hold back on showcasing military equipment comes as a result of heightened security fears over the war in Ukraine.

In official statements, the Kremlin has referred to “the current operational situation,” and threats of “Ukrainian terrorist activity.” Ukrainian drones are now striking deeper into Russian territory on an almost daily basis, hitting oil facilities and airfields.

Security and anti-drone defences have been tightened in Moscow, with mobile internet periodically shut off. Analysts warn that even a small drone attack could have a significant psychological impact on the parade.

The Victory Day parade is a tradition from the communist era, revived by President Vladimir Putin in 2008 after the USSR collapsed. Since the full-scale war began in 2022, the parade has been scaled back.

Last year’s parade featured modern tanks and Chinese soldiers, but this year only foot soldiers and an aerial show will take place. Experts link the decision to Russia’s military setbacks and security threats from Ukraine.

Source: www.aljazeera.com