PHOTO Armed soldiers on pickups, blocked roads: Moscow's most modest parade. Putin arrived

Moscow observed its most subdued Victory Day parade in recent memory, a stark contrast to the displays of military might typically showcased on this significant national holiday. The decision to scale back the event, featuring fewer soldiers and notably absent tanks and other heavy weaponry, was attributed to security concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This year's commemoration, marking the 81st anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany, took place against the backdrop of a protracted and bloody war in Ukraine, which has been described as Europe's deadliest conflict since World War II.

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Russian officials have dismissed reports of a possible coup as nonsense.

The Kremlin, through spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, dismissed Western media reports suggesting heightened security due to fears of a coup or assassination attempt, labeling such claims as 'nonsense.' This deflection highlights Russia's efforts to control the narrative surrounding its leadership and the military operation in Ukraine. Meanwhile, the parade itself, usually a powerful symbol of Russian military prowess, featured soldiers marching and combat aircraft flying overhead, with President Vladimir Putin delivering a speech and laying wreaths. The absence of military hardware underscores the strain the Ukraine conflict has placed on Russia's resources and its strategic messaging.

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Russia is holding its most modest Victory Day parade in years due to the threat from Ukraine, where victory for Moscow's forces has proven elusive in over four years of the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II.

Adding a layer of international diplomacy to the somber occasion, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a three-day truce between Russia and Ukraine, from Saturday to Monday, which received support from both Moscow and Kyiv. This truce also includes an agreement for both sides to exchange 1,000 prisoners. Trump expressed his desire for a more extended cessation of hostilities, calling the conflict "the worst thing since World War II." However, Russia issued a warning that any attempt by Kyiv to disrupt the May 9th event would result in a massive missile strike on the Ukrainian capital. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a move seen as ironic, issued an order 'allowing' the Russian parade while stating Ukrainian weapons would not target Red Square. The heightened security measures in Moscow, with armed soldiers on trucks and blocked roads, underscored the tense atmosphere surrounding the event, reflecting the deep divisions and ongoing hostilities.

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I would like to see that stop. Russia (against) Ukraine, that is the worst thing since World War II in terms of (loss of) life. Twenty-five thousand young soldiers every month. That is crazy.