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EU Diplomat Urges Leaders to Shun Russia’s Victory Day Parade
A senior European Union official has cautioned against attending Russia’s forthcoming Victory Day commemorations, scheduled in the coming weeks. As Moscow prepares to mark Victory Day on May 9th, the annual event, renowned for its elaborate military parades showcasing Russian armed forces and a keynote address by President Vladimir Putin, has drawn scrutiny. This year’s observance, marking the significant 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II, has reportedly seen invitations extended to leaders from various nations, including China, India, Brazil, Slovakia, and Serbia, according to Russian media reports.
EU Warns Against Endorsing Moscow Amid Ukraine Conflict
European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas has advised leaders to abstain from participation in the Victory Day parade, stating that such attendance could be interpreted as tacit endorsement of Russia amidst its ongoing military actions in Ukraine. Speaking on the matter, Kallas conveyed that EU member states would view any involvement in the May 9th Victory Day events in Moscow with considerable concern, given Russia’s continued full-scale war in Europe.
Highlighting the position of EU candidate nations, Kallas specifically referenced Serbia, currently engaged in the EU accession process, asserting that the bloc does not wish to see prospective members present at the Victory Day observances.
Concerns for EU Candidate Countries
Kallas reiterated the EU’s resolute stance, stating: “We have unequivocally communicated that we do not want any candidate country to participate in these events on the 9th of May in Moscow – this message was clearly conveyed.”
In a separate appeal, she further encouraged EU member states and institutional representatives to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine through increased visits to Kyiv, underscoring the EU’s support for Ukraine.
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Serbia and Slovakia Defy EU Advice
Despite the EU’s cautionary message and ongoing accession discussions, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic indicated last month that he had engaged in discussions with President Putin and intends to attend the Moscow parade.
Adding to this, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has officially confirmed his attendance at the Victory Day celebrations. Conversely, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has declined the invitation to participate in the Moscow events.
Other Leaders’ Attendance Unclear
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who has participated in previous Victory Day parades, may not attend this year due to a scheduled visit to Washington in early May.
Earlier reports suggesting the attendance of former US President Donald Trump at the parades were subsequently refuted by Trump himself.
Victory Day Anniversary
80th Anniversary of Victory Over Nazi Germany
This year’s Victory Day marks the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory over Nazi Germany during World War II. The event in Moscow takes place annually on May 9th, a day after Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) is commemorated in other parts of Europe and the West.