Russia Condemns European Leaders’ Victory Day Visit To Ukraine Amid Moscow Parade Boycott

Russia has sharply criticized the intentions of several European leaders to visit Ukraine during the observance of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II.

On Monday, Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) expressed disapproval over the symbolic gesture by European officials, interpreting their presence at commemorative events in Ukraine as a deliberate alternative that is poorly conceived.

In an official statement, the SVR also took issue with the European Union’s directive advising its member nations and accession candidates to avoid attending the Victory Day parade in Moscow on Friday.

The Russian intelligence agency accused the European bloc of adopting a revanchist stance against Russia and backing “reckless efforts” of what it labeled as the neo-Nazi regime in Kyiv, despite being aware of the reputational risks involved.

According to the SVR, Germany’s decision to bar Russian and Belarusian ambassadors from participating in its memorial activities should be viewed in this light.

Notably, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić had earlier expressed interest in traveling to Russia. However, Fico has recently withdrawn from public appearances, including Labour Day celebrations. Similarly, Vučić ended his trip to the United States prematurely due to health concerns.

The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, issued a stern caution, stating that countries defying the EU’s advisory by engaging in Russia’s events could face potential consequences.

Kallas, a known Kremlin opponent and former Estonian prime minister, instead encouraged European heads of state and government envoys to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine by visiting Kyiv on May 9.

In defiance, Fico reaffirmed his commitment to visiting Moscow, stressing the importance of honoring the Red Army soldiers who liberated Slovakia and acknowledging the millions who perished under Nazi oppression.

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