Russia Cancels Naval Parade in St. Petersburg Due to Security Concerns

A major naval parade has been canceled for security reasons. Russia has canceled the major naval parade scheduled for today in St. Petersburg, as part of the celebration of the Russian Navy Day, citing "security reasons."

The decision comes in the wake of massive attacks by Ukrainian drones on Russian territory. "Security reasons are of paramount importance," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, confirming the cancellation of the parade, which has been held since 2017 to showcase Russian naval power.

The decision to cancel was made after about 100 Ukrainian drones were shot down by Russian air defenses on Saturday night. In particular, in the Leningrad region, near St. Petersburg, more than 10 drones were intercepted, resulting in the injury of a woman and causing delays at Poulkovo Airport.

The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, who traditionally attends the parade, was limited this year to a video message, in which he praised the "courage" and "heroism" of the sailors participating in military operations in Ukraine.

The escalation of drone attacks inside Russia appears to be leading authorities to increased security measures, even affecting events of national importance.