As Russia prepares to host world leaders for the annual May 9 Victory Day celebrations, tensions in Moscow have escalated sharply following a series of drone strikes attributed to Ukraine. The attacks have caused significant disruptions at the capital’s main airports and raised fresh security concerns just days before one of Russia’s most symbolically important national events.
Russian authorities temporarily closed Moscow’s major airports, including Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo, and Nizhny Novgorod, after multiple nights of drone activity. Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin confirmed that Russian air defense systems had intercepted at least 14 drones overnight. The closures led to widespread flight delays and cancellations, with some aircraft diverted to alternative airports. Rossiya Airlines and other carriers issued warnings about potential travel disruptions stemming from the heightened security measures.
Despite the volatile atmosphere, foreign dignitaries have begun arriving in Moscow to attend the Victory Day events, which commemorate the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to begin a four-day visit to Russia during the commemorations. A total of 29 heads of state are reportedly planning to participate in the celebrations, and military units from 13 countries—including China—are set to take part in the parade on Red Square.
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine looms heavily over the festivities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that Ukraine cannot guarantee the safety of foreign leaders who choose to attend the ceremony in Moscow. In response, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova accused Zelensky of “openly threatening” visiting dignitaries, intensifying the already strained diplomatic climate.
Russian officials maintain that security will be ensured for all participants, but the drone attacks underscore the vulnerabilities even in the heart of the capital. As international leaders arrive and final preparations are made for the military parade, Victory Day 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most politically charged and tightly secured commemorations in recent Russian history.
