Moscow's Victory Day Parade Faces Diminished Attendance Amid Security Concerns
Moscow's Victory Day parade, traditionally a grand display of military power, is set to be a scaled-down event this year. The Kremlin has cited 'current operational situation' as the reason for the absence of military vehicles and cadets. The guest list is notably short, with only a few international leaders, such as Laos President Thongloun Sisoulith and Malaysian Supreme Ruler Sultan Ibrahim, expected to attend. Slovak Premier Robert Fico, initially expected, has confirmed he will not be present. The parade occurs under heightened security due to potential threats from Ukraine, which has led to restrictions on mobile internet and text messaging services in Moscow. The mood in the city is subdued, with residents expressing a desire for the ongoing conflict to end. 
