Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated Ukraine can not assure the security of overseas officers planning to attend Russia’s Victory Day parade in Moscow on Could 9, warning that any incidents on Russian territory fall solely underneath the Kremlin’s management, Interfax Ukraine reported on Could 3.
“Our place could be very easy for all international locations touring to Russia on Could 9: We can’t be held accountable for what occurs on the territory of the Russian Federation,” Zelensky stated throughout a briefing with journalists. “They’re accountable for your security. We won’t present any ensures, as a result of we have no idea what Russia may do on these dates.”
Zelensky cautioned that Russia may orchestrate provocations, together with “arsons, explosions, or different actions,” after which try to blame Ukraine. He stated Kyiv has suggested visiting delegations accordingly.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s authorities has reportedly invited quite a few overseas leaders to attend commemorative occasions marking the eightieth anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany. Among the many invited friends are leaders from EU member Slovakia, EU candidate Serbia, in addition to China, India, and Brazil.
“I informed the overseas minister that when international locations attain out to us, we should clearly state: ‘We don’t suggest visiting Russia from a (safety) standpoint. And in case you select to go, that’s your private resolution — don’t ask us for ensures,’” Zelensky stated.
The Ukrainian chief emphasised that Ukraine has proven respect towards nations which have remained impartial or aligned with Russia attributable to historic ties, together with China, and that Kyiv continues to have interaction in diplomatic dialogue with these states.
“However Ukraine bears no duty for what occurs inside Russia. That could be a truth,” Zelensky added. “Furthermore, I’m certain that different international locations interact in the identical diplomacy with the Russians once they come to us, and expertise reveals that we have now had many alternative leaders, and through their visits there have been varied codecs of assaults, assaults, intimidation.”
In March 2024, Russia launched a missile strike on Odesa throughout a go to by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, killing 5 folks. The explosion occurred simply moments after Greek PM and President Zelensky toured the town’s port.
Russia celebrates the top of World Battle II in Europe on Could 9, marking the event with pompous army parades. Most different European nations, together with Ukraine, mark Could 8 as Victory in Europe Day.
The Kyiv IndependentAnna Fratsyvir