Russian troops fighting in Ukraine marched alongside Chinese forces on Moscow’s Red Square to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s defeat. The Victory Day celebration, marked by greater spectacle than in recent years, featured an expanded military presence with tanks, rocket launchers, and drones on display.
Vladimir Putin addressed the largest parade since his 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, stating, “The Soviet Union took upon itself the most ferocious, merciless blows of the enemy… Truth and justice are on our side. The entire country, society and people support the participants of the special military operation.”
Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the parade, solidifying Russia’s alliance with China. The two leaders held extensive talks, condemning the US in a joint statement. Other foreign dignitaries, including leaders from Brazil, Slovakia, and Serbia, also attended, which the Kremlin presented as proof of its international support.
Meanwhile, EU foreign ministers and Britain’s David Lammy announced the establishment of a tribunal for Russian war crimes in Lviv, Ukraine. “Russia’s aggression cannot go unpunished and therefore establishing this tribunal is extremely important,” said EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized Russia’s attempt to “appropriate Ukraine and distort history,” accusing the Kremlin of twisting the legacy of World War II for propaganda purposes. “Tomorrow, the organiser of the mass graves in Bucha will speak of Nazi atrocities. The architects of the Mariupol siege will invoke the siege of Leningrad. It will be a parade of cynicism, bile, and lies,” Zelenskyy said.
Global Reactions
European Leaders
European leaders have been actively engaged in addressing the situation in Ukraine. Britain, France, and several north European nations met in Oslo to push for a full ceasefire in Ukraine. Additionally, EU foreign ministers and Britain’s David Lammy announced the establishment of a tribunal for Russian war crimes in Lviv, Ukraine. EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, emphasized the importance of holding Russia accountable, stating that “Russia’s aggression cannot go unpunished.” This move is seen as a unified effort by European countries to address Russia’s actions and provide support to Ukraine.
US Stance
The US has expressed frustration with Russia’s demands in talks, with the US Vice-President stating that Moscow is asking for “too much.” This indicates a divergence in the negotiation positions between the two nations. The US has been actively involved in diplomatic efforts regarding the conflict, and its stance reflects a commitment to finding a resolution that aligns with its interests and those of its allies.
India’s Perspective
India’s Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the country’s contribution to World War II and its continued push for global cooperation and reformed multilateralism. Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth represented India at the commemorative event in Moscow, underscoring New Delhi’s careful diplomatic balancing amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Western countries over the Ukraine conflict.
Other Global Reactions
- China and Russia’s Alliance: Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the Victory Day parade, solidifying Russia’s alliance with China. The two leaders held extensive talks, condemning the US in a joint statement.
- Ukrainian Response: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized Russia’s attempt to “appropriate Ukraine and distort history,” accusing the Kremlin of twisting the legacy of World War II for propaganda purposes.
- Putin’s Intentions: Analyst Andrei Kolesnikov believes Putin is undecided about negotiations or continuing the war, stating that “For now, he is stalling for time.” The international community is closely watching Putin’s next move, given the critical moment for Moscow.