Russia on major security check ahead of WWII tributes

Associated Press

Kyiv: Russia enacted a major security clampdown ahead of Tuesday's annual commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, curbing the use of drones, jet skis and carsharing services in its largest cities amid its 14-month war with Ukraine.

At least 21 Russian cities cancelled May 9 military parades — the staple of Victory Day celebrations across Russia — for the first time in years, Russian media said. Regional officials blamed unspecified “security concerns” or vaguely referred to “the current situation” for the restrictions and cancellations. It was not clear whether their decisions were taken in coordination with the Kremlin.

Last week, Russia — which hasn't witnessed the carnage endured by Ukraine during the invasion — was rattled by ambiguous official reports that two Ukrainian drones flew into the heart of Moscow under the cover of darkness and reached the Kremlin before being shot down.

Media and local officials have blamed other sporadic drone attacks, especially targeting oil depots near the two countries' border, on the Ukrainian military. Kyiv officials decline to comment on such claims.

The fears of a possible Ukrainian attack appeared real, even though parades will go ahead in Russia's largest cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg. But the use of drones has been banned in both cities ahead of Victory Day.

In St. Petersburg, often referred to as "Venice of the north” for its network of rivers and canals, using jet skis in certain parts of the city is prohibited through May 10. In the Russian capital, car sharing services have been temporarily barred from the city centre — drivers will not be able to start or finish rides there – amid preparations for the traditional Red Square parade.