Vladimir Putin has refuted claims of a potential coup amidst a toned-down Victory Day parade in Moscow, Russia. The Kremlin has acknowledged heightened security for Putin but dismissed rumors of an internal threat.

Due to the “current operational situation,” Russia’s annual Victory Day parade in Moscow will feature no military equipment, as stated by the Russian Defence Ministry. Meanwhile, a three-day ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine has been confirmed, brokered by the US.

Donald Trump announced the ceasefire agreement, stating it could mark the “beginning of the end” for the longstanding conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The ceasefire is scheduled to run from Saturday through Monday.

Despite increased security measures for the Victory Day parade, reports of a coup plot against Putin have been debunked by Russian officials. The event proceeded without security concerns after a decree from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Putin’s acceptance of the US-proposed ceasefire is seen as a sign of his vulnerability and weakened state, according to sources. The truce, involving a halt in missile and drone activities, was agreed upon by Putin and Zelensky following Trump’s intervention.

This marks the first time Putin has agreed to an external ceasefire, indicating a shift in his approach as external pressures mount. The ceasefire will also involve an exchange of prisoners between the two sides.