Russia Hosts Global Leaders for WWII Victory Day Commemoration

Russia is hosting over two dozen world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, for the 80th anniversary of its WWII Victory Day celebrations, aiming to demonstrate Moscow’s international alliances despite Western efforts to isolate it over the Ukraine conflict. The event features a grand military parade in Red Square and heightened security measures in response to Ukrainian drone attacks and internet disruptions. While most Western leaders are absent, leaders from the Global South and countries such as Serbia, Cuba, and Vietnam are attending, underscoring Russia’s pivot toward non-Western alliances. President Xi is regarded as the main guest, with his four-day visit focused on deepening trade, energy partnerships, and strategic cooperation through BRICS. The absence of European leaders and warnings from the EU highlight ongoing geopolitical divisions, while attending leaders emphasize respect for the Soviet role in WWII and resistance to Western dominance. The celebrations serve as both a commemoration of history and a major PR opportunity for Russia to project power and unity among its allies.