Russia’s WWII victory celebrations are muted this year as Ukraine war weighs on Putin
Russia’s Victory Day celebrations marking WWII’s end are overshadowed by the ongoing war with Ukraine, as both sides accuse each other of violating a short-lived ceasefire. Ukrainian drone and missile strikes continue deep inside Russia, including attacks on oil facilities and civilian infrastructure, while Kremlin officials warn of heavy retaliation if Moscow is targeted during official events.
Russia’s annual Victory Day celebrations, marking the 81st anniversary of its WWII triumph over Nazi Germany, are proceeding with muted enthusiasm due to the war in Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin’s planned speech in Moscow’s Red Square on Saturday has lost its usual fanfare, as tensions remain high between Russia and Ukraine. Both sides accused each other of violating a unilateral ceasefire declared by Russia for Friday and Saturday. Moscow’s Defense Ministry claimed its forces halted combat operations but accused Ukrainian forces of striking Russian positions and civilian infrastructure in Belgorod and Kursk regions. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russian attacks continued overnight, with Ukrainian air defenses shooting down 56 Russian drones. Ukrainian forces have intensified long-range strikes inside Russia, including a recent attack on an oil facility in the Yaroslavl region over 700 kilometers from the border. Russian officials warned of decisive retaliation, including potential mass strikes on Kyiv, if Ukrainian attacks disrupt Saturday’s events. Presidential aide Yuri Ushakov emphasized that Russia has reinforced measures to respond to any disruptions. The war has also fueled domestic discontent in Russia, with growing criticism of Kremlin policies. Victory Day, once a symbol of national pride and military strength, now reflects the challenges of a prolonged conflict with no clear resolution in sight. U.S.-led diplomatic efforts to broker peace have so far failed amid deep-seated distrust between the two sides. Ukraine’s advancements in drone and missile technology have allowed for precise strikes deep within Russia, including targeting oil refineries and infrastructure. The escalating attacks have strained Russia’s defenses, particularly in southern regions like Rostov-on-Don, where a Ukrainian drone strike forced 13 airports to suspend operations. As Putin addresses the nation, the atmosphere remains tense, with the war’s toll overshadowing traditional Victory Day celebrations. The lack of progress in diplomacy and continued military engagements suggest the conflict will persist, further complicating Russia’s domestic and international standing.
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