During a briefing, journalists questioned Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s press secretary, about which foreign leaders would be invited to Moscow to mark May 9 Victory Day. The question touched on the sensitivity and symbolism of the event, as it often involves high-level guests from multiple countries and serves as a stage for interpreting current international relations. Peskov responded that it was premature to disclose any names and that information would be announced in due course. He declined to share further details at that moment, signaling that preparations were still underway and that announcements would come through official channels when ready.
Earlier, it was noted that the dress rehearsal for the parade commemorating the 79th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War was scheduled to be held on May 5, with the grand parade set for May 9. This sequence is customary for Victory Day events in Moscow, designed to showcase coordination, precision, and the ceremonial aspects of national remembrance. The precise timeline helps organizers manage crowds, security, and the complex logistics required for a large-scale national celebration, while also allowing observers to gauge the event’s scale and tone ahead of the main day.
In related remarks, last week Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu stated that military parades dedicated to the anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory would take place in 28 Russian cities in 2024. He indicated that approximately 9,000 personnel would participate, along with 75 weapons and aircraft from the Aerospace Forces (VKS) that would be featured in the Red Square parade. This broader schedule demonstrates how the celebration extends beyond Moscow to regional centers, reflecting the nationwide significance attached to the historic victory and its enduring role in Russian military and civic rhetoric. The emphasis on both personnel and equipment underscores the ceremonial as well as symbolic aspects of the occasion, highlighting the interplay between remembrance and national defense capabilities. [cited: official defense ministry briefing]
Additionally, Shoigu had previously announced efforts aimed at expanding the combat capabilities of the Russian Armed Forces. The statements point to a broader context in which the Victory Day commemoration intersects with ongoing discussions about modernization, readiness, and strategic deterrence. Observers often watch these announcements for signals about defense priorities and organizational updates, especially in the lead-up to major national events that carry both historical resonance and contemporary security implications. [cited: defense ministry communications]