The UK Ministry of Defense in an intelligence report analyzed the cancellation of this year's Immortal Regiment march in Russia, stating that it was likely due to vulnerability to drone strikes and potential protests against the war in Ukraine, UNN reports.
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The report states that the Russian "immortal regiment" march, which was to take place on May 9, 2024, has been canceled. During the march, family members usually displayed photos of deceased World War II veterans, which was associated with Victory Day. Instead, portraits can be displayed in cars and public places from May 1 to 11.
According to rosmedia, victory parades in five regions of Russia have also been canceled for security reasons. These include Bryansk, Pskov, Ryazan, Kursk, and Belgorod. The British Ministry of Defense noted that all of these regions are located in western Russia and are therefore "likely to be vulnerable" to unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) strikes.
"For the second year in a row, the 'immortal regiment' march is canceled, and the Victory Day parades are shortened for security reasons. This year, President Putin's inauguration precedes Victory Day, taking place on 7 May. The likelihood of protests and dissatisfaction with the war in Ukraine is also likely to have influenced the Russian leadership's calculations," the British Defense Ministry said.