Russia Conducts Annual Victory Day Parade on Red Square

This year's parade was scaled back for security reasons, with officials citing fears that Ukraine might target Red Square with drones. No heavy military hardware such as tanks, rocket launchers or intercontinental ballistic missiles appeared on the square.

Instead, footage of multiple rocket launchers, fighter jets, tanks, submarines and other weaponry was shown on giant video screens erected for the occasion. The parade passed off without incident.

Fewer journalists attended after many international media organisations were not granted access. Fewer guests filled the stands and fewer world leaders were present. A Russian television crew approached one of the few foreign reporters on site to film an interview highlighting the presence of foreign media.

One reporter noted that sprinting from the media bus to secure a good viewing position was unnecessary because of the reduced numbers.

A last-minute ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv reduced the risk of any disruption to the parade. Ukraine's president issued a decree permitting Russia to hold the event. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded that Russia did not need anyone's permission to conduct the Victory Day parade.

Officials presented the 1945 victory as a continuing source of national pride. Russia pushed back and defeated an aggressor in that conflict. The current conflict in Ukraine, now in its fifth year, provided a contrasting backdrop. Russia invaded Ukraine more than four years ago.

The BBC's Russia editor, who has covered many previous parades, noted the absence of heavy weaponry.