“I was born here [in St. Petersburg], you know, I always went to the Neva to watch the ships. My father was a naval officer, so it was interesting to me. In my opinion, there is no need to defend many ships here – a limited number is enough. I hope that a ship parade will take place on Navy Day, but fewer vessels will be used,” N. Patrushev said.
He clarified: “If we focus only on parades, that will not be right. Ships must carry out military tasks.”
Putin: this is not saber-rattling, but the creation of traditions
In 2017, having decided to hold the first Navy (KJL) parade, V. Putin emphasized that it was not “saber-rattling,” but the restoration of traditions:
“We decided to revive the main naval parade, which will soon take place in St. Petersburg. I assure you – this is not saber-rattling, but the restoration and revival of traditions that have existed for more than a century.”
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In 2022, V. Putin enshrined the organization of the main naval parade in the Navy ship statute, writes “Agentstvo”.
After the war in Ukraine began, Russia held Navy Day celebrations in the usual format two more times. However, in 2024, the number of ships participating in the parade was severely cut, and in 2025, the parade was not held at all.
Last year, V. Putin still called this day a “beautiful holiday.” “However, I think you will agree that under current conditions, it is right to celebrate this holiday in a combat working environment – with everyone in their places,” V. Putin said.
