Russia held a scaled-back version of its annual Victory Day parade on Saturday, with fewer military displays than in previous years as the country marked the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

The parade in Moscow's Red Square did not feature the typical rows of tanks and ballistic missile carriers that have characterized past celebrations. The reduction in military hardware comes as Russia continues its invasion of Ukraine, now in its second year.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine would refrain from attacking the military parade in Moscow in exchange for prisoner swaps with Russia. The statement suggests ongoing negotiations between the two countries regarding the exchange of captured personnel.

The diminished scale of the parade reflects security considerations as the conflict continues. Victory Day traditionally serves as a major state celebration in Russia, showcasing military power and commemorating the country's role in defeating Nazi Germany in 1945.

The modifications to this year's celebration occur against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Ukraine, which began in February 2022. The conflict has affected various aspects of Russian domestic events and celebrations as security concerns have increased.