Russian President Vladimir Putin has alleged Kyiv of intimidating foreign leaders who travelled to Moscow for victory day celebrations, marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany.
Putin took strong note of Kyiv trying to escalate the attacks ahead of and during Russia’s unilaterally declared ceasefire period, including the drone attacks on multiple regions and at least five attempted ground incursions into Russia’s strategically important region of Kursk, which was recently claimed by Russian forces during a massive surprise attack.
Putin told reporters on early Sunday morning that these actions were intended not only to provoke militarily but also to pressure the foreign dignitaries in attendance.
“The Kyiv authorities not only rejected our proposal for a ceasefire but also, as we all saw, they tried to intimidate the leaders of states gathered for the celebrations in Moscow,” Putin said.
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Despite threats from Kyiv and intense pressure from Western governments, dozens of leaders from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and a few from Europe joined the commemorative events in Moscow. Putin praised their resolve, saying they showed moral courage in defying “blackmail” and “ultimatums.”
“And who tried to intimidate them? Those who salute and applaud former SS soldiers. Who elevated those who collaborated with Hitler during World War II to the rank of national heroes,” he added.
The event was attended by 28 leaders from China, Brazil, Egypt, Venezuela, Cuba, Belarus, and many others from former Soviet republics, Africa, and Asia.
Putin especially praised Serbian President AleksandarVucic and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, both of whom had faced significant pressure from the EU over their participation.
Putin said the leaders attending the celebrations are “leaders by character” who are “ready to stand up for their beliefs,” highlighting that they did not bow down under political pressure from the EU and honoured the legacy of the anti-fascist struggle.
“We understand the massive pressure they faced. And that’s why we sincerely appreciate their political courage, firm moral stance, and the decision to share the celebration with us — to pay tribute to the memory of the heroes of the Great Patriotic War, of World War II, who fought for their homeland and for ridding all mankind of the brown plague,” Putin said.
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