In a scaled-down display of military might, Russia's annual Victory Day parade, held on 9 May, featured a solitary tank as the country continues to grapple with losses in the ongoing conflict. Vladimir Putin, reviewing around 9,000 troops on Red Square, witnessed the symbolic roll-out of a second world war-era T-34 tank, carrying the banner that represented the Soviet Union's triumph over Nazi Germany and its allies.

The T-34 tank, although not currently in combat use, holds iconic status and is a reminder of the historical significance of the Victory Day celebrations. The parade was not the only aspect affected by the largest land war Europe has witnessed since World War II. Photos from Red Square revealed patrolmen armed with anti-drone rifles, highlighting concerns about sabotage attacks due to the increased presence of drones on the battlefield, as well as at military and energy sites within Russia.

During a separate meeting with Russian commanders involved in the conflict in Ukraine, Putin was asked about expediting the production of advanced drones similar to those utilized by Ukraine. Acknowledging the threat posed by enemy drones, Putin assured the commanders that work was underway to address this issue, expressing confidence in achieving satisfactory results.

Open-source intelligence defense analysis website, Oryx, estimates that over the last two years, the Russian army has lost a staggering 3,000 tanks, with 2,000 destroyed and another 514 captured by Ukraine. The total number of lost armored vehicles is believed to exceed 15,724, including 11,202 destroyed. These losses have significantly impacted Russia's military capabilities and strategic position.

Despite these setbacks, Russia's Victory Day parade showcased several dozen vehicles, including BTR-82A armored personnel carriers, various types of armored vehicles, an armored ambulance, and the Yars mobile strategic missile systems capable of carrying intercontinental ballistic missiles armed with nuclear warheads.

In response to perceived threats from the West, including French President Emmanuel Macron's refusal to rule out sending troops to Ukraine, Putin announced that joint drills on the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons had commenced between the Russian and Belarusian defense ministries. The Kremlin views these drills as a necessary precaution, emphasizing that while Russia seeks to avoid a global conflict, it will not allow any entities to threaten its borders. Putin underscored the readiness of Russia's strategic nuclear forces, which are kept on high alert.

The Victory Day parade serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made throughout history, as the country continues to navigate the challenges posed by current conflicts. Russia's military and political celebrations bear witness to the toll taken by the ongoing war and underscore the nation's determination to defend its interests and maintain stability.