Russia Displays Iran-Made, Domestically Produced Drones in Moscow Victory Day Parade

For the first time, Russia publicly displayed combat drones used in its military operations in Ukraine during the Victory Day parade on Red Square, marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II. The showcased drones included the Iranian-made Shahed-136, renamed Geran-2 in Russia, and the domestically produced ZALA Lancet, both of which have been critical in striking Ukrainian military targets and energy infrastructure. Russian officials emphasized that drone strikes are limited to military objectives, denying accusations from Ukraine that civilian sites were targeted. The parade also featured traditional military hardware and troops, including contingents from allied nations such as China and North Korea, with President Vladimir Putin attending alongside foreign leaders. This public embrace of drone technology reflects Russia's intent to demonstrate military resilience despite international sanctions and signals closer military-technical cooperation with Iran. Furthermore, Putin's speech at the event drew parallels between the Soviet Union’s WWII fight and Russia’s current conflict in Ukraine, while a ceasefire declared during the celebrations was reportedly violated multiple times by Russia.