**Russia’s Victory Day Celebrations Marked by Tensions with Ukraine and International Community**
Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, has led the country’s Victory Day commemorations in Moscow, marking 80 years since the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany. The event was attended by thousands of soldiers, including some who have fought in Ukraine, as well as leaders from around the world.
**Heightened Security and International Presence**
The celebrations were marked by heightened security measures in Moscow, following days of Ukrainian strikes targeting the capital. China’s President Xi Jinping joined Putin at the event, a significant moment for Russia which sees its relations with Beijing as being at their highest-ever level.
China’s presence was underscored by military contingents from North Korea, Vietnam, and Mongolia, although the North Koreans did not participate in the parade. Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro were also among those attending the event.
**Tensions with Ukraine Remain High**
Despite the international presence, tensions between Russia and Ukraine remain high. A unilateral ceasefire announced by Russia was met with skepticism by Kyiv, which accused Moscow of launching thousands of attacks since it came into effect at midnight on Wednesday. The Russian military claims to have observed the truce, while accusing Ukraine of hundreds of violations.
**A Ceasefire That Fails to Hold?**
Germany’s new Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he hoped for a full ceasefire to be agreed as soon as this weekend, and that Russia could extend its three-day truce by another 27 days. However, the EU has made it clear that leaders should not attend events like Victory Day due to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
The situation on the ground remains volatile, with multiple clashes reported along the front line on Thursday alone. Ukrainian forces have accused Russian troops of violating their own ceasefire thousands of times since its introduction.
**A Symbolic Gesture?**
China’s attendance at the event has been seen as a significant achievement by Putin, who praised Beijing for its “courageous” support in World War Two. However, Taiwan has disputed China’s claims, saying that communist forces made no substantial contribution to the war effort.
In an address on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for a full ceasefire and expressed his readiness to negotiate a lasting peace with Russia. His comments were echoed by US President Donald Trump, who reiterated calls for an unconditional ceasefire and warned of further sanctions if not implemented.
**A Long and Lasting Peace?**
The international community remains divided on how to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As the situation continues to unfold, it is clear that a lasting peace will require significant efforts from all parties involved.
In the meantime, the people of Ukraine continue to suffer the consequences of Russia’s actions. The international community must come together to support those affected and work towards a resolution that brings an end to this devastating conflict.
**Sources:**
* BBC News
* X (formerly Twitter)
* Truth Social
