Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed serious concerns regarding the safety of foreign delegations planning to attend the upcoming Victory Day Parade in Moscow. Scheduled for May 9, the event commemorates the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II.
Zelenskyy stated, “Our position is very simple for all countries traveling to Russia on May 9: We cannot be held responsible for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation.” His comments, reported by Ukrainian news agency Interfax, highlight the uncertainties surrounding the security environment in Russia during this period.
Concerns over potential provocations
Emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the situation, Zelenskyy warned that Russia could potentially stage provocations, such as “arson, bombings and so on, only to blame us.” This stark warning underscores the heightened tensions and the perceived risks associated with the event.
Among the dignitaries expected to attend the commemorative festivities are Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Their presence at the event reflects the significant geopolitical implications tied to this historical observance.
Reactions from Russian officials
The response from Russian officials to Zelenskyy’s remarks has been one of indignation. Dmitry Medvedev, the deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, accused Zelenskyy of making a “verbal provocation” through his statements. Medvedev further threatened, “Zelenskyy understands that in the event of a real provocation on Victory Day, nobody will be able to guarantee that Kyiv will live to see May 10.”
As the celebrations approach, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a unilateral three-day ceasefire beginning May 8, which Kyiv has characterized as a manipulative tactic. Ukrainian officials have instead called for an immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire lasting at least 30 days.