Russia: Victory Day parades scheduled nationwide June 24

Event

Victory Day parades will take place across Russia on Wednesday, June 24, after President Vladimir Putin postponed them on May 9 due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Disruption is particularly likely in the capital Moscow, St Petersburg, Yekaterinburg (Sverdlovsk province), Volgograd (Volgograd province), Tula (Tula province), Novorossiysk (Krasnodar kray) and Smolensk (Smolensk province).

COVID-19 measures remain in place in Russia and should be adhered to where possible. In Moscow, social distancing measures are being enforced and face masks are to be worn in public.

A heightened police presence, crowded conditions, and significant traffic disruptions are anticipated throughout the country during the celebrations.

Context

The 2020 Victory Day will mark the 75th anniversary since the end of World War Two and commemorate Russia's role in the war.

Advice

Individuals in Russia are advised to remain vigilant, report suspicious objects and behavior to the police, follow instructions issued by local authorities, and avoid all gatherings as a precaution.

All COVID-19 measures in place are to be adhered to at all times.