Sparse square...single tank in slimmed-down Russia parade

ONE solitary ageing tank, no fly-past and just a sprinkling of soldiers Russia's growing difficulties in the conflict in Ukraine were clear to see at its Victory Day yesterday

- Mark Reynolds

Kremlin despot Vladimir Putin was guarded by snipers as he presided over a radically scaled down ceremony to mark the 1945 defeat of Nazi Germany.

Some commentators believe the Russian leader's soaring paranoia meant he sent a body double for parts of the parade in Moscow.

Amid fears of Ukrainian sabotage, many cities scrapped revelries in a blow to Putin.

The ceremony in Moscow's Red Square which traditionally showcases Russian military might - was nothing like the size of other years.

One old T-34 Second World War tank, compared with dozens in previous years and hardly any military personnel, reflected the losses being suffered by Russia in Ukraine.

The event was also closed to the public this year, after the recent drone strike on the Kremlin.

Putin himself cut an isolated figure, with his nuclear briefcase carried by an aide as he arrived at Red Square.

Standing in front of the Kremlin's top military leaders, the Russian President delivered a short speech warning civilisation was again at a "decisive turning point", with a "real war" being waged against Russia.