The Kremlin announced on Thursday that additional security measures are being implemented for Russian President Vladimir Putin during the May 9 Victory Day celebrations, citing what it describes as a terrorist threat from Ukraine.
Security Enhancements for Victory Day
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that extra security measures are standard practice ahead of major holidays, particularly Victory Day. He emphasized that this year's enhanced precautions are necessary due to the alleged threat from Ukraine.
When asked directly whether Putin's personal security was being tightened, Peskov confirmed, "Of course."
Dismissal of Coup Reports
Peskov dismissed a CNN report, citing a European intelligence source, that claimed security around Putin had been sharply raised due to fears of a coup or assassination attempt. He questioned the credibility of the source, stating, "What is European intelligence? I'm not aware of the existence of such a thing."
Moscow is on high alert for potential Ukrainian disruptions during Saturday's events marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War Two. Putin will oversee a military parade on Red Square and typically delivers a speech. In recent years, he has used the occasion to rally support for the war in Ukraine, portraying modern soldiers as heroes continuing the legacy of World War Two veterans.
Parade Modifications and Drone Attacks
Russia announced last week that the May 9 parade would be scaled down, omitting the usual display of tanks and missiles for security reasons. On Monday, a drone struck a high-rise building in southwest Moscow, and on Thursday, Russia reported that its air defenses destroyed 32 drones heading toward the capital.
Russia has warned of a massive missile attack on central Kyiv in response to any Ukrainian attacks during Saturday's celebrations. It announced a ceasefire for May 8 and 9, though this was not coordinated with Kyiv. Ukraine declared its own two-day ceasefire starting Tuesday night.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russia has not responded to Kyiv's calls for a permanent ceasefire, adding that "human life is incomparably more valuable than the 'celebration' of any anniversary."
