United StatesOn May 3, a procession featuring portraits of Red Army soldiers and Soviet flags took place in Washington DC, organized by individuals who expressed admiration for Russia and its military history. Similar events occurred in other cities, including Paris, Amsterdam, and Busan. However, in Russia, preparations for Victory Day on May 9 were marked by significant changes and anxiety. The Immortal Regiment march in Moscow was moved online, and the traditional parade in Kaliningrad was canceled. Restrictions were placed on military songs and symbols near memorials in Berlin. Internet access was intermittently disrupted in Moscow, and attendance at events in St. Petersburg was drastically reduced. The Russian government warned foreign embassies in Kyiv to evacuate ahead of May 9, citing concerns about potential retaliatory strikes. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a statement allowing the Russian celebrations to proceed, specifying that Red Square would not be targeted during the festivities.
Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple perspectives and events related to Victory Day celebrations and their implications, without overtly favoring any particular side. It includes information from various sources and provides context about both the international and domestic responses to these events.
