Know what is the Victory Day Parade, before which Russia attacks intensified, security agencies keep a close watch on Kremlin

Russia launched drone, missile and airstrikes on Kiev and other Ukrainian cities overnight. The attacks are claimed to have been escalated in the run-up to their May 9 Victory Day holiday celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany. Ukraine said its air defenses destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahad drones launched by Russia. Kiev’s mayor said at least five people were injured due to damage to fuel depots, cars, buildings and infrastructure in the capital. A food warehouse was set on fire by a missile in the Black Sea city of Odessa, where officials reported three people were injured.

It was one of the biggest volleys of missiles and drones in a renewed Russian air campaign that began 10 days ago in early March. Kiev said Moscow was making a last-ditch effort to try to capture the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut, in what would be its only reward for a costly Russian winter offensive just in time for President Vladimir Putin to leave. The army said 16 rockets were fired at Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions in the past 24 hours, in addition to 61 attacks and 52 rockets fired at Ukrainian posts and populated areas.

The army said that unfortunately the killed and injured are civilians. Multi-storey buildings, private houses and other civic infrastructure were damaged. Moscow is preparing for Tuesday’s Victory Day parade, the most important day in the calendar for Russia under Putin, who uses the 1945 Soviet victory over Nazi Germany to justify his invasion of Ukraine.

Battle for Moscow with the Nazis

The day of May 9 has special significance for Russia. The eyes of the whole world are once again fixed on Moscow. The Russian army has come on high alert mode on all frontlines along with Ukraine. Victory Day is celebrated every year on 9 March in Russia. However, the first Victory Day parade took place on June 24, 1945. During this, Russian soldiers not only fought the Nazis for Moscow, but also defended Leningrad and Stalingrad. After this, he took out a grand Victory Day Parade at Red Square.