There has been speculation that Putin could use the Victory Day occasion to make a major announcement, or even to declare a full-scale war on Ukraine, as opposed to a "special military operation."
Russia says it's pointless to declare full-scale war on Ukraine on Victory Day.
So far, Moscow has denied that it is at war, and refers to the occupation as a "special military operation."
But Western officials have speculated that President Vladimir Putin could use the parade to announce an escalation of military action.
In the days leading up to the February 24 invasion, Russian officials lined up to ridicule suggestions for an imminent invasion of "Western hysteria and propaganda." However, they invaded, capturing many Ukrainians by surprise.
So the least we can expect are some triumphant announcements of achieved goals and defeated enemies (real or imagined), writes BBC.
The blame for the slow pace of Russian progress in the Donbas is likely to be on NATO, and there will likely be further warnings to the West to stop helping Ukraine defend itself.
Whatever happens today, it is hard to see this war ending soon.