Why India's Defence Minister Might Skip Russia's Victory Day Parade Amid Rising Tensions
Defence Minister's Absence from Moscow's Commemoration
New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is unlikely to attend the Victory Day parade in Moscow on May 9, which commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Germany in World War II, due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, according to sources.
Instead, Sanjay Seth, the Minister of State for Defence, is expected to represent India at the event, as confirmed by officials on Saturday.
This decision comes in light of heightened tensions between the two nations after the terror incident in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
Although no official explanation has been provided for Singh's absence, insiders from the Ministry of Defence indicated that the security implications stemming from the Pahalgam attack were a significant factor.
This announcement coincides with reports of the Pakistan Army firing at Indian positions along the Line of Control (LoC) in areas such as Kupwara, Uri, and Akhnoor, marking the ninth consecutive day of ceasefire violations following the April 22 attack that resulted in 26 fatalities.
The Indian Army's response was measured yet effective.
Initially, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had received an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the parade. However, due to the evolving security landscape and the situation with Pakistan, it was decided that Rajnath Singh would take his place.
Sources also noted that Modi's absence has led to diplomatic discussions, with speculation connecting it to the recent events in Pahalgam.
President Putin has invited leaders from various nations, including China's President Xi Jinping, to the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II. This year's parade in Moscow is expected to feature leaders from nearly 20 countries.
Victory Day on May 9 is a pivotal occasion in Russia, celebrating the Soviet Union's triumph over Nazi Germany in 1945. The parade at Red Square is one of Russia's most significant ceremonies, attracting attention from global leaders and military officials.
Prime Minister Modi visited Russia twice in 2024—once for an annual summit with President Putin and again for the BRICS Summit in Kazan.
The upcoming Victory Day event is a key component of Russia's diplomatic agenda, with President Putin planning a visit to India later this year for another annual summit.
The choice to send Sanjay Seth instead of the Defence Minister underscores the sensitivity surrounding India's security concerns following the Pahalgam attack.
This attack, which resulted in the deaths of several security personnel, has heightened security issues in Kashmir and strained India-Pakistan relations.
"While both PM Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh were invited to the Victory Day parade, the increasing security concerns have led to this change in representation," a diplomatic source stated.
As tensions persist, India's decision to send a lower-profile representative highlights the ongoing security challenges and the delicate diplomatic balancing act the government is managing.