May 9, 2026, 9:15 a.mMay 9, 2026, 9:15 a.m
The large military parade marking the day of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany with thousands of soldiers began on Red Square in Moscow under massive security precautions. Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin is taking part in the parade this time without tanks, missiles and military technology for fear of Ukrainian drone attacks.
Russian soldiers stand in ranks.Image: keystone
The scaled-down march with fewer guests is also seen as a symbol of the situation in Putin’s war of aggression against Ukraine, which has been ongoing for more than four years. During the invasion, Russia is under increasing pressure from Kiev’s counterattacks. The fighting is at a dead end.
Putin gives a speech on the 81st anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War, as the Soviet part of the Second World War is officially called. The president is protected by an extreme security presence during his public appearance in front of international guests. The mobile internet is also switched off.
Fighter squadron should end parade in Moscow sky
US President Donald Trump surprisingly announced a ceasefire brokered between Kiev and Moscow and the planned exchange of 1,000 prisoners of war for 1,000. The ceasefire therefore applies until May 11th. In the morning there were initially no official reports of possible violations of the agreement.
Russia had previously announced a halt to all troop movements from May 8th to 10th itself because of Victory Day over Nazi Germany. However, fighting and attacks continued.
Soldiers from the Russian invasion of Ukraine also take part in the parade. A squadron of Russian fighter pilots coloring the sky with the colors of the Russian flag should conclude the event.
The surrender of the German Wehrmacht on May 8, 1945 in Berlin took place in the early hours of May 9 in Moscow. That is why Russia always celebrates Victory Day on this date. (hkl/sda/dpa)