Putin spoke against a backdrop of painted ships instead of an actual parade
Russian President Vladimir Putin found himself in a curious situation during the events marking Russian Navy Day. Because the full-scale parade was canceled, he had to deliver his speech against a backdrop of scenery depicting ships.
The Russian authorities were unable to hold the traditional naval parade, so instead of real warships, a painted image of the “fleet” appeared in the frame. The bizarre scene quickly caught the attention of social media users.
In the footage that appeared online, the dictator can be seen marching and addressing the military. The commander-in-chief congratulated the Navy personnel on the holiday, after which they shouted “Hurrah!” three times.
However, with each frame, it became increasingly clear that the event took place without a fleet, and its only decoration was a huge banner featuring a submarine.
This event was closed to residents of St. Petersburg. According to the Center for Countering Disinformation, Russians were even blocked from accessing mobile internet and phone service, and the streets were cordoned off.
The “festive” atmosphere was also noted by sailors wandering around the empty Dvortsovaya Square, surprised by the absence of spectators. Z-bloggers also made no secret of their disappointment, calling the event “a parade in a garage cooperative,” the report states.
Due to the absence of the fleet and the parade itself, the Russians tried to celebrate Navy Day in some way. So they showcased the new Russian fleet. These were small vessels with platforms that traveled along rivers, with soldiers standing on them holding flags and weapons.
This was reported by the Center for Public Diplomacy.
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