By New York Post (World News) | Created at 2026-08-06 14:26:24 | Updated at 2026-08-06 15:08:51
51 minutes ago
WARNING: DISTRESSING CONTENT
A Russian paratrooper has died after his parachute failed to open during an Airborne Troops Day celebration near Moscow.
The 41-year-old military soldier leapt from the plane flying at nearly 2000 feet above the ground during the air display.
However, his main parachute failed to deploy, with horrifying footage showing the man twisting in the air as he fell.
The paratrooper attempted to activate his reserve parachute, but the distance to the ground was too short for it to expand in time to save his life, according to Visegrád 24.
Paratroopers are military soldiers trained to be dropped from an aircraft to land, with a parachute, in a specific spot.
In this instance, the man was taking part in Airborne Forces Day on August 2, which celebrates the nation’s paratroopers.
He travelled to the Vatulino airfield near Moscow, where the tragedy unfolded.
An image of the aftermath of the horrific accident shows a white parachute spread across the grass and the soldier’s body blurred out.
The celebration comes as Vladimir Putin continues his brutal invasion of Ukraine, which is now in its fourth year.
In the face of recent military blows, the Russian president would have sought to use Airborne Forces Day as an opportunity to project strength, The Sun reported.
He said in a post on the Kremlin’s website that airborne divisions had “always been filled with men of exceptional fortitude, indomitable spirit, unwavering resolve, a profound sense of comradeship, and mutual support”.
“You are rightfully proud of the founders of the Airborne Forces, the immortal deeds and outstanding achievements of those who came before you, and you honour your veterans as role models,” he said.
“I would like to particularly note the skilful and resolute actions of the paratroopers who are defending Russia in the special military operation zone, shoulder to shoulder with their brothers in arms, displaying heroism and courage in the most critical sectors of the front.”
An alleged Ukrainian drone strike on a Black Sea resort in Gelendzhik on Monday killed at least seven people, including three children, Russian authorities have said, with more than 40 others injured.
Meanwhile, a Russian ballistic missile and drone attack killed at least 21 people in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday.
