Several Regions in Russia Cancel Victory Day Parade Over Security Concerns

The move reflects heightened security risks in Russia amid ongoing war and disputed ceasefire proposals. Make us preferred on Google Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin leaves Red Square after the Victory Day military parade in central Moscow on May 9, 2025. Russia celebrates the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two (WWII). (Photo by Gavriil Grigorov / POOL / AFP) Content Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Flip Make us preferred on Google Authorities in several Russian regions have canceled Victory Day military parades, citing security concerns ahead of the May 9 celebrations marking the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II. According to Russia’s BBC service , regional officials said the decisions were based on what they described as a “difficult operational situation.” Follow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official . On Wednesday, Oryol region Governor Andriy Klychkov said local authorities had decided to cancel the parade following a recommendation by the regional operational headquarters. Similar measures have been announced in Voronezh, Veliky Novgorod, Pskov, and Nizhny Novgorod, where officials also opted to scale back commemorative events. In Chuvashia, regional authorities said they would cancel the parade and the “Immortal Regiment” march - a nationwide event honoring Soviet war veterans. In the Kaluga region, Governor Vladislav Shapsha said Victory Day celebrations would be limited “for safety reasons,” with no mass marches or fireworks planned across most areas. However, smaller ceremonial events will still take place in the cities of Maloyaroslavets and Kozelsk, both designated as cities of military glory. In the Saratov region, veteran organizations also recommended canceling military parades and fireworks, with Governor Roman Busargin saying the decision was taken in light of ongoing security risks. The reductions in public celebrations come as Russia faces increased security concerns ahead of Victory Day, including fears of potential drone attacks linked to the war in Ukraine . Other Topics of Interest Zelensky: Russia Plans Large-Scale Resource Extraction in Occupied South Analysts estimate hundreds of deposits are already under Russian control – including at least 478 in Luhansk, 684 in Donetsk, and nearly 200 across Zaporizhzhia and Kherson region. Earlier this week, Russia’s defense ministry said President Vladimir Putin had ordered a unilateral ceasefire for May 8–9 to coincide with Victory Day celebrations, warning that any disruption could trigger strikes on Kyiv . President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected the proposal as a “manipulation” aimed at protecting the parade rather than advancing peace. Ukrainian officials said Kyiv would implement its own “regime of silence” from May 6 and respond in a mirror‑like manner if Russia violates the truce. According to Ukrinform , authorities in Moscow and St. Petersburg have also implemented temporary restrictions on mobile communication and internet services, citing the need to ensure public safety during the holiday period. Victory Day remains one of Russia’s most important national holidays, traditionally marked by large‑scale military parades, including in Moscow’s Red Square. Kyiv Post is Ukraine’s first and oldest English news organization since 1995. Its international market reach of 97% outside of Ukraine makes it truly Ukraine’s Global – and most reliable – Voice.