**EU Leaders Warned Against Attending Russia’s May 9 Celebrations**
In a move to show solidarity with Ukraine, European Union leaders have been urged not to attend Russia’s military celebrations on May 9 in Moscow. The warning comes from EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas, who expressed concern that participating in the event could be seen as condoning Russia’s actions.
**Russian President Putin‘s Invitation List**
According to reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin has invited leaders from China, India, and Brazil, as well as from EU member Slovakia and EU candidate Serbia, to attend the events marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany. However, Kallas made it clear that any participation in these celebrations would not be taken lightly by the European side.
**Russia’s War Efforts**
Kallas emphasized that Russia is waging a full-scale war in Europe and that participating in these celebrations would only serve to legitimize their actions. Russia has repeatedly used historical commemorations to justify its invasion of Ukraine, with Putin falsely claiming it as an effort to “denazify” the country.
**EU’s Counter-Measure**
Ukraine had invited senior EU leaders and officials to Kyiv on May 9 to counter Russia’s commemorations. Kallas backed this idea, calling for all member states and institution representatives to visit Kyiv and show solidarity with Ukraine. This move demonstrates the EU’s stance against Russia’s actions and its commitment to supporting Ukraine.
**Hungary and Slovakia**
The office of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has announced that he will not attend the parade in Moscow. However, Slovak leader Robert Fico had previously planned to attend the event in November 2024. This development highlights the mixed views within EU member states on how to approach Russia’s celebrations.
**Kyiv Independent**: Kallas urged leaders to boycott Moscow’s May 9 celebrations and show support for Ukraine instead. The article can be read more about this topic at Kyiv Independent.