New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not travel to Moscow to attend Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9, the Kremlin has confirmed.
The announcement was made by Dmitry Peskov, press secretary to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who said: “The leader of India will not come, India will not be represented at the highest level.” Peskov did not specify the identity or rank of the official who will attend in Mr Modi’s place. But according to reports, India will be represented by a delegation led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the commemorative events.
A contingent from each of the three wings of the Indian armed forces will also take part in the parade.
Grand military parade on Red Square
Russia had extended a formal invitation to Prime Minister Modi to join the commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in the Second World War. The grand military parade on Red Square is a hallmark of Russia’s Victory Day, symbolising the country’s historic triumph and military heritage. The occasion typically features a large display of military hardware, a ceremonial march-past of the Russian Armed Forces, and an address by President Putin.
This year’s commemorative events hold particular significance as they mark eight decades since the signing of the Act of Unconditional Surrender of Germany on May 9, 1945, which brought an end to the war in Europe. Leaders from several nations described by Moscow as “friendly countries”, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, are expected to attend.
PM Modi last visited Russia in July 2024
Prime Minister Modi’s decision comes in the wake of increased hostilities with Pakistan, after last week’s terror attack in Pahalgam. At least 26 people were killed when terrorists attacked a group of unsuspecting tourists. While the Ministry of External Affairs had earlier acknowledged receipt of the Russian invitation, no formal confirmation of PM Modi’s attendance was made earlier.
PM Modi last visited Russia in July 2024, his first visit to the country in nearly five years. During that trip, he held discussions with President Putin and extended an invitation for the Russian leader to visit India. President Putin accepted the invitation, although the dates for his visit remain unannounced.
