PM Modi to skip Russia's invitation, not to visit Moscow for May 9 celebrations

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not visit Moscow to attend Russia 's Victory Day Parade on May 9, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. The decision comes amid high tension with Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack.

Russia had extended an official invitation to PM Modi to attend the May 9 victory Day celebrations in Moscow, marking 80 years since the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II .

Russia had also invited leaders from several other "friendly nations" to participate in this year’s commemorative parade, a key annual event showcasing the country’s military and historical legacy. Several other international leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, are expected to come to Russia for events to mark the 80th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany in world war II.

PM Modi last visited Russia in July 2024, his first trip to the country in nearly five years. During that visit, he held extensive discussions with President Vladimir Putin and invited him to visit India. Putin accepted the invitation, although the dates of his visit have not been disclosed.