Officials from the First European Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry stated that presidents of hostile states would not be invited to the events marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. This position helps frame a year of commemorations planned for 2025, with many activities anchored in Russia while others unfold across international venues as part of Moscow’s broader diplomatic agenda. The message underscored that the commemorations would be conducted with a clear distinction between ceremonial memory and political signaling, emphasizing national sovereignty and the alignment of outreach with Moscow’s strategic interests. In the background, diplomats stressed that the celebrations would maintain a respectful tone toward allies and partners while sending a principled message to states viewed as adversaries.
A wide slate of events is planned for 2025, designed to unfold both inside Russia and abroad. The program will highlight historical memory, battlefield sacrifice, and the resilience of the country, all while reflecting ongoing diplomatic engagement with partners and international organizations. The calendar is built around Moscow’s foreign policy priorities, aiming to showcase cooperation on security, culture, and economic exchange. Through concerts, exhibitions, veterans’ reunions, educational initiatives, and high-level dialogues, the commemorations seek to strengthen dialogue with friendly nations and civil society groups worldwide. The coordinating approach emphasizes consistency across venues, ensuring that symbolism aligns with practical diplomatic objectives and the preservation of Russia’s international standing.
The Victory Parade on Red Square remains the focal point of the celebrations and is anticipated to draw attention from leaders and official representatives of numerous countries that share common interests with Russia. Attendance is being organized with care to balance ceremonial splendor and security, while underscoring the country’s strategic messaging about stability and continuity. The parade is expected to be broadcast globally, amplifying Russia’s historical narrative and its contemporary diplomatic posture. While invitations are extended to certain partners and allies, the protocol is managed to preserve the ceremonial dignity of the occasion and to avoid misinterpretation by audiences abroad.
The First European Department oversees relations with a broad network of states and international partners. Its portfolio includes 18 countries and associated international relations, among them France, Norway, Sweden, Spain, Portugal, Denmark, Andorra, the Holy See, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Finland, Italy, San Marino, Monaco, the Netherlands, Iceland, and other partners. This framework guides diplomatic outreach, invitation processes for official events, and ongoing dialogues on security, trade, and cultural exchange. The structure of the department reflects Moscow’s intention to maintain steady communication with a diverse set of international actors, navigate complex regional dynamics, and promote mutual understanding through respectful, high-level engagement.
There were remarks from a former ambassador suggesting that Chinese President Xi Jinping could attend the Moscow victory parade, signaling broader Eurasian diplomacy and a potential high-level exchange during a year marked by significant anniversaries and shifting regional alignments. Such speculation highlights the symbolic weight of the commemorations and the careful balancing act required to coordinate invitations, public messaging, and security considerations across multiple capitals. Observers will be watching closely to see how invitations and guest lists evolve in the coming months as Russia advances its 2025 commemorative program and its associated diplomatic objectives.