Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has criticized Russia’s reported plans around its May 9 parade in Moscow, accusing Russian leaders of seeking a brief moment of safety for a public event while continuing the war against Ukraine.
In a post shared on X, Zelenskyy said Russia appeared to want Ukraine’s approval, or at least restraint, so it could hold its annual parade safely in the capital before returning to military attacks.
Ukrainian President Questions Russia’s Logic
Zelenskyy described the situation as deeply contradictory, saying Moscow wanted to enjoy public ceremony and symbolic celebration even as it continues its assault on Ukraine.
“The Russians want Ukraine’s permission to hold their parade – so they can safely take to the square for an hour once a year, and then go back to killing our people and waging war,” Zelenskyy wrote.
He added that Russian officials were already discussing possible strikes after May 9, calling the thinking behind Moscow’s position “strange” and “twisted.”
Warning To Countries Close To Russia
Zelenskyy also addressed reports that representatives from countries aligned with or close to Russia may travel to Moscow for the event.
He said such plans were difficult to understand given the ongoing war and Ukraine’s continued losses.
“There are also messages from some states close to Russia that their representatives intend to be in Moscow. An odd desire at a time like this. We do not recommend it,” he wrote.
Impact and Consequences
Zelenskyy’s remarks add further tension around Russia’s May 9 Victory Day events, which are often used by Moscow as a display of military tradition and national pride.
His warning could place additional pressure on foreign officials considering attendance, especially those from countries that maintain close ties with Russia.
The comments also reinforce Ukraine’s argument that Russia should not be allowed to separate symbolic state ceremonies from the reality of the war it is waging.
What’s Next?
The focus now turns to whether representatives from Russia-friendly countries will still attend the Moscow parade despite Zelenskyy’s warning.
Ukraine will also be watching closely for any Russian military activity around or after May 9, particularly after Zelenskyy said Moscow was already discussing strikes following the event.
Russia has not been quoted in the provided statement responding directly to Zelenskyy’s comments.
Summary
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned Russia’s expected May 9 parade plans, saying Moscow wants a brief period of safety for a public ceremony while continuing its war against Ukraine.
He also warned countries close to Russia against sending representatives to Moscow, calling such plans inappropriate during the ongoing conflict.
Bulleted Takeaways: Zelenskyy Warns Countries Against Attending Russia’s May 9 Parade In Moscow
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized Russia’s plans surrounding its May 9 parade in Moscow.
- He accused Russia of wanting safety for its parade while continuing attacks on Ukraine.
- Zelenskyy said Russian officials were already discussing strikes after May 9.
- He described Moscow’s logic as “strange” and “twisted.”
- The Ukrainian president warned representatives of Russia-friendly states against attending the event.
- He said traveling to Moscow at this time would be an “odd desire.”
- Zelenskyy said Ukraine does not recommend attendance at the parade.
- The comments increase political tension around Russia’s annual Victory Day ceremony.
