Russia celebrated the 80th anniversary of Victory Day with expanded military displays, including drones presented for the first time in Red Square. Putin's speech avoided direct mentions of Ukraine while emphasizing Russia's stance against Nazism, Russophobia, and anti-Semitism. Foreign leaders' attendance, including Xi Jinping, was framed as evidence of diplomatic isolation failure.
Despite the ceasefire announced for Victory Day, a Ukrainian drone struck a Belgorod government building, wounding the deputy governor. Russian media reported Ukrainian attempts to breach borders during the truce.
Diplomatic developments intensified with Putin-Trump exchanging Victory Day greetings through aides. Presidential aide Ushakov confirmed ongoing Russia-US talks about European gas supplies. German Chancellor expressed hope for a potential ceasefire "within days," though Kremlin spokesperson Peskov stated substantive discussion of a 30-day ceasefire is "impossible without considering nuances."