**Russia Prepares for Victory Day Parade Amid Ukraine Threats**
As Moscow gears up to celebrate its grand Victory Day parade on May 9, the atmosphere is tense. The event, which showcases Russia’s military strength and national pride, has become a major concern for Ukraine. Over the past few days, Ukrainian drones have targeted Moscow’s airports, causing air traffic disruptions just as Russians were traveling for holidays.
The threats come after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that his country “cannot be held responsible” for anything that happens during the Russian parade. This statement has sparked speculation that Ukraine might consider striking military targets inside Russia during the event.
**A Grand Display of Military Might**
The Victory Day parade is a highly anticipated event, with invitations sent to several dozen foreign leaders, including China’s Xi Jinping and Brazil’s Lula da Silva. The guest list is significant, as it highlights Russia’s international standing. However, last year’s parade saw only foreign leaders from Belarus, Central Asian countries, Cuba, Laos, and Guinea-Bissau in attendance.
This year’s parade comes at a time when Russia’s relations with the world are strained. Ukraine’s threats have added to the tension, with experts speculating that Kyiv might consider striking military targets during the event.
**A Show of Force**
Ukrainian forces have shown that they have the capability to strike Moscow. In March, 14 strikes were recorded on the Moscow region, and four on the city itself. While most Ukrainian attacks are intercepted by air defense, a small proportion of drones do manage to reach the city.
Nichita Gurcov, an analyst who covers Ukraine at the Polish Institute of International Affairs (PISM), said that Ukraine’s threats serve as a reminder that Russia is still at war today and has not defeated Ukraine. “Ukraine just doesn’t want to be walked over,” he explained. “The question of narrative is important in understanding this.”
**A War of Narratives**
Experts agree that Ukraine’s threats are also an attempt to shift the narrative of the conflict. By speaking about potential attacks on the Victory Day parade, Kyiv aims to embolden public opinion and build internal morale.
Maria Piechowska, an analyst at PISM, said that Ukraine’s statements serve as a reminder that Russia is still at war today and has not defeated Ukraine. “The question of narrative also serves internal political purposes,” she added. “An attack on the Victory Day parade would be a kind of ‘dream’ for many in Ukraine.”
**A Reality Check**
As the world watches, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to escalate. The threats made by Kyiv have had an impact on foreign leaders who were planning to attend the parade. While some have chosen not to attend due to concerns over their safety, others have expressed a willingness to travel to Moscow despite the risks.
Dr. Marnie Howlett, a lecturer in Russian and East European politics at the University of Oxford, said that the statements made by Ukraine are a reflection of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. “The fact that Russia is a country at war and that traveling there carries significant risks is simply a reality of the war,” she explained.
As the world waits with bated breath for May 9, one thing is clear: the conflict between Russia and Ukraine will continue to shape global politics and international relations in the days to come.
