This occurred after the sudden cancellation of Navy Day. The event and related developments have raised questions about Putin’s security fears, Russia’s ongoing war losses, and US President Donald Trump’s new peace deadline.
Russian President Vladimir Putin Walks With Drone Defense Gear
Footage captured in Moscow shows President Vladimir Putin walking near military personnel while a secret service officer holds a “Yolka” drone interceptor. The Yolka is a “fire and forget” device used to bring down explosive drones. The launcher appeared ready to use and was partially covered by a bag.
Another agent was also seen carrying what is believed to be Putin’s nuclear briefcase, a device used to authorize atomic strikes. The event took place around two months ago during Victory Day celebrations.
Russia’s Navy Day Parade Cancelled Over Drone Fears
Russia’s Navy Day parade, traditionally held in July, was canceled at the last moment. Instead of a large naval show, smaller events were conducted. The Kremlin stated the decision was based on “security reasons” due to ongoing threats from Ukraine.The Ukrainian Center for Countering Disinformation said the cancellation shows how the war has impacted everyday life in Russia. The center added that symbolic events like the Navy Day parade no longer feel safe on Russian soil.
Ukraine’s Continued Naval Strikes
Since the beginning of the invasion in 2022, Ukraine has conducted multiple drone and missile attacks on Russian naval forces. These have resulted in the destruction or damage of many ships in the Black Sea. Ukrainian officials claim that 34 percent of Russia’s 184 warships in the region have been disabled.
In 2024, Ukraine destroyed Russia’s last missile cruiser in the Black Sea, the “Zyklon,” along with the minesweeper Kovrovets. In April, the Ukrainian Navy also hit the Kommuna, Russia’s oldest active ship.
Russia’s Only Aircraft Carrier Decommissioned
Russia’s only aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, is expected to be decommissioned. Work on the vessel was stopped earlier this month. It is now likely to be scrapped. The ship’s future reflects broader issues with Russia’s military fleet amid repeated Ukrainian attacks.
US President Donald Trump Cuts Peace Deadline
US President Donald Trump has issued a new warning to Putin. Speaking at a press conference in Scotland with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump said he was “very disappointed” in Putin. He reduced the earlier 50-day peace deadline to just 10 to 12 days from Monday.
This sets the new deadline around August 6–8. Trump added that if a peace deal is not reached, the US will impose secondary sanctions on countries buying oil from Russia. However, he still believes a peace deal could happen.
FAQs
Why was Putin seen with an anti-drone device?
Putin was escorted with a drone launcher likely due to ongoing drone threats linked to the Ukraine conflict and fears of attacks during public appearances.
What is the new peace deadline set by Trump for Putin?
Trump reduced the deadline from 50 days to around 10–12 days starting July 29, placing the final date around August 6–8.
