First Time in 2 Decades, Russia Does Not Showcase Advanced Weapons on Victory Day

Russia held its Victory Day celebration for World War II in an unusual manner this year. For the first time in nearly two decades, Russia did not stage the customary parade of military equipment. According to reports from BBC and CNN on Sunday (10/5/2026), the parade marking the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II took place at Red Square in Moscow on Saturday (9/5). Typically, this parade is conducted on a grand scale, featuring an impressive display of heavy military equipment. However, this year’s parade appeared markedly different. There were no tanks, rocket launchers, intercontinental ballistic missiles, or other advanced Russian military equipment that the Kremlin usually showcases on Victory Day to project Russia’s military strength on the international stage. Although not displayed at Red Square, several rocket launchers, fighter jets, tanks, submarines, and other weaponry were shown on large screens installed at the site. The Kremlin appears to have decided against publicly displaying their military equipment, opting instead for video presentations. In addition, the number of guests in the stands was smaller, and fewer world leaders attended the event compared to previous years. The parade began with a flypast of fighter aircraft over the Kremlin, followed by soldiers marching in front of Lenin’s Mausoleum. Four parade units participated, including one from North Korea. State media RIA Novosti reported that more than 1,000 soldiers from the ‘special military operation’ took part in the parade. As in previous years, Putin directly connected Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine to the sacrifices endured by the Soviet Union during World War II. He also referenced NATO’s support for Ukraine. ‘The great achievements of the victorious generation inspire the soldiers carrying out their duties in the special military operation today. They face an aggressive force armed and supported by the entire NATO bloc. Yet, our heroes continue to advance,’ Putin stated.