Latest news on the war in Ukraine and the situation in Russia – follow here

The conflict in Ukraine grinds on, with the latest updates from the region and Russia being closely monitored. Saturday marked Victory Day, a significant commemoration in Russia, where President Vladimir Putin addressed the nation during the annual military parade.

However, this year's parade, held on the 81st anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany, presented a somewhat diminished spectacle compared to its predecessors. The scale of the event, often a display of military might, was noticeably reduced, drawing attention amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

As the war continues to dominate headlines, the events surrounding Victory Day in Russia offer a point of focus, highlighting both the historical significance of the day and the current geopolitical realities. The reduced scale of the parade is likely to be interpreted in various ways, both domestically and internationally, against the backdrop of the protracted conflict.