Russia Invites PM Modi to 80th Victory Day Parade on May 9

Moscow: Russia has extended a formal invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the Victory Day celebrations on May 9, which will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II.

According to Russian news agency TASS, Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko confirmed that Moscow is anticipating Modi’s presence at the event. “The invitation has been sent. The visit is currently being arranged,” Rudenko stated on Tuesday. “It’s being worked out, it should be this year. He has an invitation,” he added.

The Russian government has reportedly invited leaders from several allied nations to participate in this significant annual military parade.

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Victory Day marks the date when the Soviet Army’s offensive led to the signing of Germany’s unconditional surrender on May 9, 1945, bringing an end to the war in Europe.

Prime Minister Modi last visited Russia in July 2024—his first trip there in nearly five years—where he participated in high-level discussions and extended an invitation to Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit India.

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Putin has accepted Modi’s invitation, although no official dates for his India visit have been confirmed yet. The two leaders remain in regular contact, often speaking over the phone and meeting during major international events.

(With PTI Inputs)