Zelensky stuns Putin with drone parade? Ukraine showcases air, sea and ground war machines in Kyiv

Ukraine marked Independence Day with a first-of-its-kind military showcase in Kyiv, putting drones at the centre of the parade. Ground, aerial and naval unmanned systems were reportedly displayed, including reconnaissance, interceptor and naval drones used against Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. The showcase comes as the Russia-Ukraine war continues and Kyiv highlights the growing role of unmanned warfare. Ukraine has not held a conventional military parade since 2022, instead displaying destroyed Russian equipment in previous years. Meanwhile, European leaders reaffirmed military, financial and political support for Ukraine. Is Kyiv’s drone parade a warning to Putin about the future of warfare?