02 May 2018 | 07:59 AM UTC
Russia: Victory Day celebrations May 9
Cities throughout Russia will hold Victory Day celebrations on May 9, with the largest parade in Moscow; transportation and commercial disruptions expected
Event
Victory Day celebrations will be held nationwide on Wednesday, May 9. According to Minister of Defense Sergei Shoigu, military parades will be held in 28 cities, with more than 55,000 soldiers participating in the events. The largest parade will take place in Moscow’s Red Square, starting at 10:00 (local time). Over 13,000 troops and 159 vehicles are taking part in the celebration. Crowded conditions, heightened security measures, road closures, and other transportation disruptions are expected in Moscow during the parade. Additional major events are scheduled to take place in Saint Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, and Vladivostok.
Context
Russia holds the annual Victory Day parade on May 9 to celebrate the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in 1945. This will be the 73rd anniversary of the end of World War II and the government typically uses the parade to showcase new military technology.
Advice
Individuals in Moscow, and more generally in Russia, are advised to anticipate transportation disruptions around all Victory Day events, allow additional time to travel, and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.
