Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not attend Russia’s Victory Day Parade on May 9 amid escalating tensions with Pakistan. Russian President Vladimir Putin had invited leaders from several allied nations, including Modi, to mark the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
According to a statement from the Kremlin, Modi has opted not to participate in the event, which is expected to be attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The decision comes in the wake of a deadly attack in India-administered Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 people were killed by gunmen on April 22. India has accused Pakistan of indirect involvement in the incident, which has further strained bilateral relations.
In response, Pakistan’s Information Minister claimed on social media that India may launch an attack within the next 24 to 36 hours. Pakistan has warned that any aggression will be met with an appropriate response.
Modi last visited Russia in July 2024, marking his first official trip to the country in five years. At that time, he had invited Putin to visit India, though a date for that visit has yet to be confirmed.