Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has commented on Moscow's plans to hold the 9 May Victory Day parade without military equipment, saying this would be the first time in many years. He added that there are also concerns in Russia that drones could appear over Red Square.

Moscow celebrates Victory Day on May 9, 2026: major celebrations are taking place in the capital, an enhanced security regime is in effect, the city center is closed and transport operations have been changed.

For years, Russia’s Victory Day parade has symbolized the country’s military strength and power, with a dazzling display of heavy military equipment and a stream of visiting dignitaries.

A Kremlin-proposed cease-fire to mark Victory Day collapsed within hours, as Ukraine and Russia reported hundreds of violations a day before a scaled-down military parade in Moscow.

There were no casualties, but the damaged façade of an upper floor was clearly visible from the street A Ukrainian drone hit an upmarket residential high-rise in Moscow in the early hours of Monday, resulting in no casualties but causing visible damage to the façade of the building.

Which sites would be more effective to strike? A strike on Red Square would attract the attention of the world, but drones should not be wasted because of Moscow’s reinforced security. Attacks on the energy sector or military facilities would be more ...

Lukashenko has left on a working visit to Russia, his press service said. Earlier, the official announcement of the trip was published. According to propagandists, a meeting with Putin is planned during the visit. Lukashenko is also expected to take part in the parade to be held on May 9 on Red Square in Moscow.

One theory behind the move is that the Kremlin is trying to shield the parade from possible Ukrainian disruptions. On Monday, it unilaterally declared a two-day ceasefire with Ukraine over the coming weekend, as a drone hit a high-rise building close to the Kremlin.