Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear that Ukraine cannot guarantee the safety of foreign officials attending Russia’s Victory Day parade in Moscow on May 9. Zelensky emphasized that any incidents on Russian soil are solely under the Kremlin’s control, warning that visiting delegations should not expect guarantees from Ukraine.
Zelensky expressed concerns that Russia might orchestrate provocations during the commemorative events, including arsons or explosions, and then try to shift blame onto Ukraine. He stressed that Ukraine has advised countries considering attending the parade to exercise caution due to potential risks.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s government has extended invitations to various foreign leaders to participate in events marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany. Despite this, Zelensky has advised countries to weigh the security implications before deciding to attend the celebrations in Moscow.
The Ukrainian leader underlined that Ukraine respects countries with historical ties to Russia, including China, which have chosen to remain neutral or aligned with Russia. Zelensky emphasized that while diplomatic dialogue continues with such nations, Ukraine cannot be held accountable for events that transpire within Russian territory.
Zelensky’s stance comes against the backdrop of historical tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with the two countries marking Victory Day on different dates. While Russia celebrates on May 9, most European nations, including Ukraine, observe Victory in Europe Day on May 8.
Notably, Zelensky rejected a truce proposal from Putin, labeling it as theatrical, and reiterated Ukraine’s support for a 30-day ceasefire plan backed by the United States. This underscores the ongoing complexities in the diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Russia amid the backdrop of the conflict.
In a closed-door session with journalists, Zelensky criticized Russia’s approach to the conflict, highlighting instances of attacks and intimidation during visits by foreign leaders to Ukraine. He emphasized the need for strong international pressure on Russia to halt the ongoing hostilities and reiterated the importance of sanctions in addressing the situation.
The escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia have raised concerns about the safety of foreign officials visiting the region, particularly during sensitive commemorative events. Zelensky’s statements reflect the challenges faced by countries navigating diplomatic engagements amid the ongoing conflict in the region.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the dynamics between Ukraine and Russia remain a focal point of international attention. The complexities of historical grievances, security concerns, and diplomatic maneuvers underscore the intricate nature of relations between the two neighboring countries.
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