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Three Western intelligence officials from different countries have told The Associated Press that a campaign of targeted killings they blame on Russia has ramped up since Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. While Russian officials have long been accused of silencing the country’s enemies abroad, the officials say this campaign is different. The officials say Russia’s security services are now being more brazen in their choice of targets, going after Russian activists and foreign supporters of Ukraine. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive information. Western officials see the campaign as connected to Russia’s broader efforts to undermine European countries that support Ukraine.

AP Wire
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Russia's traditional Victory Day parade will take place without military equipment, according to the Russian Defense Ministry. This marks the first time since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 that no military vehicles will be part of the May 9 event on Moscow's Red Square. The ministry cited the "current operational situation" for the change but did not elaborate. The parade will include service members and a traditional aircraft flyover. Victory Day is Russia's most important secular holiday that the Kremlin uses to showcase its military might and global clout.