Victory Day is back in headlines: Russia scales back the parade over security fears as Ukraine warns of ceasefire talks for the holiday. Key figures: Putin, Trump (talks).
The Kremlin has announced a scaled-back Victory Day parade in Moscow for May 9, excluding military hardware and cadets due to the current operational situation. Moscow cites ongoing Ukrainian drone activity as the primary reason, signaling a tightening security posture for a key national event.
Trump has discussed a possible cease-fire with Putin for the Victory Day period, with the Kremlin saying the talks were friendly and business-like. Both leaders have signaled openness to a pause in fighting around May 9, though Kyiv has not yet weighed in, and Moscow has pared back Victory Day celebrations this year.