Story perspectives

Russia to Hold Weapon-Free Victory Day Parade

4/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Russia will hold May 9 Victory Day parade without tanks, missiles or other weapons, the first such omission in almost twenty years.
The Defense Ministry said the Red Square ceremony on May 9 2026 will feature only servicemen and an aircraft flyover.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the decision reflects the current operational situation and Ukrainian drone attacks.
Analysts noted the move prevents exposure of Russian hardware, recalling the last weapon-free parade in 2007.

History

Historical Context

The Victory Parade began on 24 June 1945 on Red Square, with 40,000 Red Army soldiers, 1,850 vehicles and a detachment of the First Polish Army. After occasional Soviet jubilees and a 1995 revival, the May 9 ceremony became yearly; in April 2026 Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it would omit weapons due to Ukrainian drone attacks.

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Story summary

Russia will hold May 9 Victory Day parade without tanks, missiles or other weapons, the first such omission in almost twenty years.
The Defense Ministry said the Red Square ceremony on May 9 2026 will feature only servicemen and an aircraft flyover.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the decision reflects the current operational situation and Ukrainian drone attacks.
Analysts noted the move prevents exposure of Russian hardware, recalling the last weapon-free parade in 2007.

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