 "Russia says PM Modi invited for Victory Day Parade, confirmation pending")
Russia has formally extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend its Victory Day Parade on May 9 in Moscow, marking 80 years since the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. The invitation was confirmed by Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko. This comes against the backdrop of speculation that PM Modi may skip the event.
Quoting Rudenko, Russian news agency Tass said, “It’s being worked out, it should be this year. He has an invitation.”
This means PM Modi’s visit is currently under discussion between the two countries, with Moscow being hopeful that the Indian prime minister will attend the high-profile event.
The annual Victory Day Parade, held in Moscow’s Red Square, is a key event showcasing Russia’s military and historical legacy. Sources within India’s military circles suggest that PM Modi’s visit is highly probable, though official confirmation from New Delhi is still pending.
In addition to PM Modi, Russia has extended invitations to leaders from several other “friendly nations” to participate in the commemorative parade. This year’s event marks the anniversary of Germany’s surrender on 9 May 1945, following a Soviet-led offensive that began in January of that year.
The potential participation of an Indian Armed Forces ceremonial unit is also being discussed. If confirmed, the contingent would arrive in Russia a month prior to the event for rehearsals. This would represent a notable gesture of military cooperation between India and Russia.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsPM Modi last visited Russia in July 2024, his first trip to the country in nearly five years, during which he held extensive discussions with President Vladimir Putin and extended an invitation for Putin to visit India. Putin accepted the invitation, although the dates for his visit have not yet been disclosed.
The invitation to PM Modi reflects the strong relationship between India and Russia. The two countries recently signed a Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement to enhance collaboration in joint military exercises, disaster relief operations, and other defence-related activities.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has emphasised Russia’s willingness to host foreign dignitaries who recognise the significance of Victory Day. Modi’s anticipated attendance highlights India’s continued relationship with Russia amid ongoing global tensions.
Despite Western pressure, India has maintained a neutral stance and expanded economic cooperation with Moscow. Bilateral trade between the two countries exceeded $65 billion during the 2023-24 financial year, with plans to increase this figure to $100 billion by 2030.
Modi and Putin have met frequently in recent years, discussing cooperation across defence, energy, politics, and cultural exchanges. Modi visited Russia twice last year for bilateral talks and the Brics summit in Kazan. The leaders are also preparing for another summit later this year in India.
 "Russian drones over Poland: Trump’s tepid reaction a wake-up call for Nato?")
 "As Russia pushes east, Ukraine faces mounting pressure to defend its heartland")
 "Why Mossad was not on board with Israel’s strike on Hamas in Qatar")
 "Turkey: Erdogan's police arrest opposition mayor Hasan Mutlu, dozens officials in corruption probe")
 "Russian drones over Poland: Trump’s tepid reaction a wake-up call for Nato?")
 "As Russia pushes east, Ukraine faces mounting pressure to defend its heartland")
 "Why Mossad was not on board with Israel’s strike on Hamas in Qatar")
 "Turkey: Erdogan's police arrest opposition mayor Hasan Mutlu, dozens officials in corruption probe")
