...
...
Next Story

After PM, Rajnath Singh likely to skip Russia’s Victory Day event. Here's who might attend

Russia had extended the invite for the 80th Victory Day parade to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but later Singh was expected to attend the event.

Published on: May 3, 2025, 18:09:55 IST
Advertisement

Defence minister Rajnath Singh is likely to skip Russia’s Victory Day parade on May 9, PTI news agency reported on Sunday, citing official sources. In place of Singh, his deputy Sanjay Seth is expected to represent India at the Moscow event.

Russia’s Victory Day marks the anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. (PTI)
Russia’s Victory Day marks the anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. (PTI)

The development comes amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan over the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

Initially, Russia had extended the invite for the 80th Victory Day parade to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but later Rajnath Singh was expected to attend the event.

Russia’s Victory Day marks the anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, a key turning point in 20th-century history. Several friendly nations’ leaders and military representatives are scheduled to attend the event.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Russia twice last year—once for the annual bilateral summit with President Vladimir Putin and again to attend the BRICS Summit held in Kazan.

Earlier, Putin had condemned the “brutal” Pahalgam terror attack and extended Moscow’s support to India against its fight with terrorism.

"This brutal crime has no justification whatsoever. We expect that its organisers and perpetrators will face deserved punishment. I would like to reiterate our commitment to further increasing cooperation with Indian partners in fighting terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Please convey words of sincere sympathy and support to the near and dear ones of the deceased, as well as wishes for a speedy recovery of all injured," the Russian president said.

Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov extended his condolences following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, expressing solidarity with New Delhi. “Deepest condolences to the people and the Government of India over the heinous terror attack against tourists in Pahalgam. Russia resolutely stands with India,” Alipov added.

 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk

Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.

Get the latest India News, breaking headlines and real-time updates from across the country. Stay informed about politics, government policies, crime, weather and major national developments.
Get the latest India News, breaking headlines and real-time updates from across the country. Stay informed about politics, government policies, crime, weather and major national developments.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe