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Victory Day or War Theater? Xi Joins Putin as Ukraine Rejects Ceasefire
Putin's Presentation on Russian Victory Day in Moscow
A large military parade under Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow's Red Square to honour Victory Day and celebrate the Soviet Union's victory in World War II against Nazi Germany. Security was tight following recent drone attacks in the capital by Ukraine.
Chinese President Standing by Putin
China's leader Xi Jinping stood alongside Putin at the event. The presence of Xi was seen as hugely important and symbolic, further indicating China’s support toward Russia, while more than 100 Chinese soldiers also marched in the parade. Xi wore the St George ribbon, whose use is prohibited in some neighboring countries but viewed in Russia as a symbol of military glory.Silent Alliance
Putin Links the Second World War to the War in Ukraine
In his speech, Putin asserted that Russia is still fighting against "Nazism" today, and that this is used as a justification for the ongoing war in Ukraine, which he calls a "special military operation". He said that all Russians stand behind the war and that they have truth and justice on their side.
Russia Displays New Military Technology
For the first time, Russia displayed combat drones at the parade, highlighting their importance in the war in Ukraine. Other military vehicles, tanks, missile systems, and jets were also on display.The Unseen Move
Russia Announces Ceasefire — Ukraine Does Not
Russia had announced a temporary three-day cessation of hostilities for the occasion, but Ukraine dismissed it as something "fake." Ukrainian officials said Russian attacks were continuing even after the agreed truce began. On the first day itself, Ukraine reported almost 4,000 attacks and various skirmishes with the front line.Behind the Parade
World Leaders Come to Attend — Not Approved by All
Late 27 countries' leaders were invited, including North Korea, Vietnam, Brazil, Venezuela, Serbia, and Slovakia. The President of Serbia might be sanctioned by the EU, as EU leaders were warned against attending.Eyes on Red Square
North Korean Forces in Focus
North Korean soldiers had been fighting in the Kursk region of Russia, with some being introduced to Putin himself during the parade. Meanwhile, Kim Jong Un had also visited the Russian embassy in Pyongyang to express his support.Unspoken Message
Ukraine Calls for a Real Truce
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he wanted a real ceasefire and a long-term one, not just some sort of short show. He put forward the proposal for a ceasefire of at least 30 days and mentioned that he had already talked about this with U.S. President Donald Trump.Whispers of War
Trump supported this call for a real ceasefire and said that more sanctions could be imposed against either party that broke it.
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