August M
The Kremlin has reportedly revoked previously approved accreditations for foreign journalists ahead of Russia’s May 9 Victory Day parade in Moscow, marking an unusual restriction on international media coverage.
Ziare.com reported that several major foreign outlets were informed at the last minute that they would no longer be allowed to attend the annual military event on Red Square.
Accreditations withdrawn
According to Der Spiegel, journalists from AFP, NHK, Sky, Rai, ARD, ZDF and other international organisations had already received approval before their access was suddenly cancelled.
“The format of reporting the parade has been changed due to the current situation,” a Kremlin official reportedly told Der Spiegel.
“Therefore, foreign media, which had already been promised accreditation, will no longer be allowed.”
Parade scaled back
Ziare.com reported that Russia’s Victory Day celebrations appear significantly reduced this year.
The Russian Defence Ministry previously announced that the traditional display of military hardware on Red Square would not take place because of the “current operational situation.”
Victory Day commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II and is typically used by the Kremlin to showcase military strength with tanks, missiles and armoured vehicles.
Ceasefire accusations continue
The restrictions come amid renewed tensions between Russia and Ukraine over a proposed temporary ceasefire linked to the May 9 commemorations.
According to Ziare.com, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Moscow of failing to respect its own truce after overnight drone attacks.
“From the Russian side, there was not the slightest attempt, not even symbolic, to cease fire on the front,” Zelensky wrote on X.
Drone attacks reported
Ukraine claimed Russian forces launched more than 850 drones overnight, while Ukrainian air defence units reportedly intercepted dozens outside frontline areas.
The Kremlin had earlier confirmed that a two-day ceasefire would begin on May 8 and continue through May 9 during Victory Day events.
Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: “Yes, we are talking about May 8 and 9.”
The cancellation of foreign media access and reduction of military displays underline growing security concerns surrounding this year’s celebrations in Moscow.
Sources: Ziare.com, Der Spiegel.
