Putin claims the West is in a ‘real war’ with Russia.

Russian President Putin Claims West is Igniting War Against Nation

During the customary Victory Day ceremony on Moscow’s Red Square, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused the West of igniting “a real war” against Russia. Putin made these comments just hours after Kremlin forces launched a cruise missile attack on Ukraine, which they invaded over a year ago. Putin has portrayed the crisis in Ukraine as a proxy war with the West on numerous occasions. According to the Kremlin’s official account of the conflict, Russia is currently engaged in an existential conflict with the West, which Moscow believes is only using Ukraine as a tool to annihilate Russia, while rewriting its history and trampling on its traditional values.

Indications of Struggle for Russia

Despite Putin’s claims, there are indications that Russia is suffering as a result of the conflict in Ukraine. According to military analysts, problems with ammunition availability, personnel morale, and ineffective leadership and structure have plagued the Russian military. Following the failure of Russia’s full-scale invasion of its neighbor in February 2022, the battle primarily devolved into a war of attrition over the winter.

Shorter Parade and Security Clampdown

This year’s parade seemed shorter and more condensed than normal. Only 8,000 soldiers marched in Red Square, the fewest since 2008. In contrast to past years, there was no military aircraft flyover, and the parade featured fewer pieces of equipment on display. A significant security clampdown was also implemented in Russia for the celebrations. In Moscow, ride-sharing services and even the use of jet skis on St. Petersburg’s canals were prohibited by authorities.

Postponed Military Parades and Immortal Regiment Processions

According to Russian media, for the first time in years, the military parades on May 9th were postponed in 24 Russian cities. The parades are typically considered a cornerstone of celebrations all throughout Russia. Another important component of the event, the Immortal Regiment processions, which historically are when citizens march through the streets carrying photographs of ancestors and loved ones who perished or served in World War II, has also been postponed in numerous locations.

Foreign Guest List Light

The Red Square guest list was also light due to Putin’s extensive diplomatic isolation as a result of the conflict. Sadyr Zhaparov, the president of Kyrgyzstan, was initially the sole foreign head of state anticipated to attend this year’s parade. Compared to last year, when no leaders traveled, there was one additional foreign guest. On Monday, authorities abruptly revealed that the presidents of Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan would also be traveling to Moscow. The European Union’s executive branch president, Ursula von der Leyen, arrived in Kiev hours before cruise missiles were launched against Ukraine.

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