On the anniversary of 80 years since Nazi Germany capitulated, Russia celebrated with grand events, while European leaders took steps to establish a tribunal to hold Russian officials accountable for the war against Ukraine. This highlights the stark contrast between Western Europe and Russia, who were once allies defeating Nazi Europe. As European Union leaders pledged to assist Ukraine by channeling 2 billion euros sourced from Russia’s frozen assets, President Vladimir Putin hosted prominent figures such as leaders from China and Brazil at a massive parade demonstrating Russian might.
Ceremonies in Britain, France, and the U.S. were eclipsed by EU foreign ministers meeting in Lviv to support Ukraine, with European heads of state set to converge in Oslo. In political developments, Putin met with Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico, who has openly criticized EU policies on Ukraine. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, apprehensive of safety issues, decided to close their airspace to the planes carrying Serbia’s and Slovakia’s leaders on their way to Moscow. Expressing gratitude, Putin talked about overcoming logistical challenges and underlined an intention to restore ties with Slovakia, suggesting that previous governments adhered too closely to Western policies.
Aside from Slovakia, Putin engaged in bilateral discussions with Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Egypt’s Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, and Serbia’s Aleksandar Vucic, who came to Russia despite European pressures regarding Serbia’s potential EU membership. The stress of logistical issues was acknowledged by Putin, especially with airspace closures amid safety concerns.
Furthermore, France and Poland have solidified their commitment to shared security through a new treaty ensuring mutual assistance if either is attacked. This alliance is intended to bolster peace and stability in Europe in light of the ongoing conflict following Russia’s Ukraine invasion. The accord includes the potential for quick French intervention in Poland and possible nuclear protection.
In response to the announcement of a tribunal to charge Russian officials for alleged war crimes in Ukraine, the Kremlin indicated it would not respond. However, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry confirmed plans for the tribunal to commence with a Council of Europe meeting, aiming to hold those responsible for the Ukraine invasion accountable.
Russia celebrated its influence with a Kremlin reception attended by global leaders, with Putin applauding their unity against Western sanctions. Conversations about bilateral ties and global cooperation marked the gathering, with Putin emphasizing the strength of alliances and friendships. Despite this, a tribunal focusing on Russian aggression in Ukraine is set to take off, ratified by technical and legal processes. European leaders, united in endorsing full accountability for Russian leaders, converged in Lviv, aiming to bring justice for crimes of aggression.
Meanwhile, the EU plans to funnel almost 1.9 billion euros into Ukraine’s military support using Russian frozen assets. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal expressed gratitude towards several European nations pledged to assist in Ukraine’s defense, calling it a pivotal moment: weapons funded through frozen Russian assets by the European Peace Fund.
Ukraine strives for accountability for Russian aggression, as President Zelenskyy argues that unchecked past actions have emboldened Putin. He urged for EU backing of a tribunal similar to the Nuremberg trials, underscoring the importance of prosecuting Russian crimes to prevent further breaches of peace. Zelenskyy also noted another prospective military assistance package from the EU, highlighting European solidarity with Ukraine.
Across the Baltic states and Nordic countries, mutual calls for sanctions and enhanced security are ongoing as European leaders convene to discuss defense strategies and aid for Ukraine. Leaders remain focused on enforcement and justice to deter further aggressions, underscoring a commitment to peace and rule of law.
Amid this geopolitical landscape, Russia’s grand military parade commemorates the historical victory over Nazi Germany, drawing participation from leaders such as President Xi Jinping and others. The event underscores Russia’s pursuit of fortifying alliances in the wake of a contentious ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Meanwhile, outside celebrations, reports of Ukrainian drone attacks and communications disruptions painted a tense backdrop to Moscow’s display of power.
Victory Day remains a pivotal holiday in Russia, marking the end of World War II, celebrated on May 9, a date differing from Western nations, reflecting historical negotiations around the official surrender timeline between the Soviet Union and the Allies.