The Taliban pushed for closer ties with India during a 'Victory Day' event, which was attended by a representative from India's Ministry of External Affairs, despite India not officially recognizing the Taliban government.
The Taliban celebrated five years since seizing power in Afghanistan with military parades, as international aid groups and the UN warned of a deep human rights crisis, particularly concerning women's rights and child hunger.
The Mayor of Knin expressed satisfaction with the Victory Day celebration and arranged meetings with ministers to discuss projects, while also criticizing state bureaucracy.
Croatian Minister of Economy Ante Šušnjar congratulated Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day, emphasizing that Croats defended their homes and did not attack, addressing those who distort this truth.
Croatian Prime Minister Plenković announced an increase in veteran pensions amidst reactions to a statement by Serbian President Vučić, as Croatia marks its Victory Day and the 31st anniversary of Operation Storm.
Croatian officials, including Mayor Tomašević, laid wreaths at Mirogoj Cemetery in Zagreb and participated in commemorations in Međimurje to mark Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day. The observances honored veterans and celebrated the national holiday.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un posed for photographs with war veterans and citizens to commemorate the 73rd anniversary of the armistice that ended the 1950-1953 Korean War.
An analysis suggests America's North Korea strategy needs a dose of reality, highlighting North Korea's annual 'Victory Day' commemoration of the Korean War, which formally never ended.
President Alar Karis stated in his Victory Day parade speech in Rapla that Estonia's national defense has significantly strengthened over the past five years, highlighting that the nation's power comes from everyone recognizing their role in defense.
A concert planned for Russia Day on June 12 at Red Square in Moscow has been canceled, following earlier reports of no tanks in the Victory Day parade, indicating a shrinking of Russia's holiday spectacles.
Following a massive attack on Kyiv that damaged approximately 300 sites, Russia has threatened further strikes on the city and advised foreign nationals to leave Ukraine.
Following the May 9th "Victory Day" commemoration at the Salaspils camp, widespread misinformation about Nazi atrocities committed there during World War II has resurfaced, according to the "Re:Baltica" fact-checking project "Re:Check".
Russia's recent Victory Day parade in Moscow was notably underwhelming due to a significant absence of military equipment, according to an academic commentary. This observation offers insights into the ongoing war against Ukraine.
An analysis suggests that Russia is facing difficulties on the battlefield, noting the lack of triumphalism at this year's Victory Day parade in Moscow.
A May 9th Victory Day parade by Russians on snowmobiles and trucks in a Norwegian Arctic archipelago is being viewed by experts as a provocation by the Kremlin.
Russia's Victory Day parade in Moscow and St. Petersburg was notably subdued, with many observers interpreting it as a signal of military weakness and exhaustion amidst the ongoing war. The event also reignited speculation about President Putin's health.
Russian and pro-Russian communities organized a two-day celebration of Russian 'Victory Day' in Warsaw, with participants including former PiS MP Krzysztof Tołwiński and pro-Russian activists.
On Victory Day, Russia launched its new 'Geran-5' cruise missile via video transmission, a low-cost model reportedly copied from Iranian designs, as no physical military equipment was displayed in Red Square.
Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Moscow, where Putin claimed the war in Ukraine is nearing its end and proposed new peace talks, insisting they must take place in the Russian capital. The meeting marked a notable diplomatic engagement between Russia and an EU member state.
A three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine has commenced, agreed upon for a prisoner exchange and coinciding with Russia's 'Victory Day' parade. However, fighting has reportedly continued in some areas, leading to skepticism about its effectiveness.
Milan Knežević and Milun Zogović of the Democratic People's Party of Montenegro laid wreaths at the Monument to the Partisan Fighter on Gorica, commemorating the victory over Nazism.
Russia held a significantly scaled-back Victory Day military parade in Moscow, with President Putin delivering a speech criticizing NATO, while only a few foreign leaders were in attendance.
A three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine has commenced, reportedly at the request of US President Trump. Trump has voiced his desire for the temporary truce to last longer than the agreed-upon three days.
Russia is preparing for its Victory Day celebrations, with reports highlighting a limited number of foreign leaders expected to attend. Concurrently, the Kremlin has stated that President Putin is ready for negotiations with European countries but will not initiate the first step.
A traditional ceremony held under the Arc de Triomphe on May 8th commemorated the end of World War II in Europe, featuring the Marseillaise and the Last Post.
As Russia's Victory Day approaches, Lithuania's State Security Department (VSD) has issued a warning about potential provocations and public order disturbances during commemorative events, which may feature pro-Kremlin sentiments and Soviet symbols.
The Kremlin announced the cancellation of the traditional Victory Day parade march in Moscow, citing security threats and stating it would be held in a digital format. This decision comes amidst ongoing tensions and discussions regarding foreign leaders' attendance.
For the first time in nearly two decades, Russia's Victory Day parade in Moscow will feature no military hardware, only soldiers, which is seen as a sign that the Ukraine war is not proceeding as planned.
Konopiště Castle, which served as an SS training ground headquarters during World War II, will open an exhibition of Nazi-era newspapers and books on Victory Day, marking the 81st anniversary of the war's end.
As Victory Day approaches, the Kremlin is reportedly concerned about drone attacks, leading to the establishment of a new air defense ring around Moscow.
The Kremlin announced a ceasefire in Ukraine for Victory Day celebrations, but Russia resumed drone attacks the following day, killing at least four people, leading to accusations of 'pure cynicism'.
Russia declared a May 8-9 ceasefire for war commemoration, while Ukraine announced its own separate truce beginning on May 6. Both nations declared these ceasefires independently, leading to competing announcements.
Russia will commemorate the 81st anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany on May 9th, but the traditional parade on Moscow's Red Square will not feature military equipment, citing the "current operational situation."
This year's Victory Day parade in Moscow's Red Square, marking the 81st anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany, will be different, notably lacking military equipment for the first time in nearly 20 years.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced he is seeking details regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposal for a ceasefire on May 9, Victory Day.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed skepticism and sought clarification from the US regarding Russian President Putin's proposal for a ceasefire on May 9, Victory Day. Kyiv questioned whether the offer was a genuine peace gesture or merely an attempt to secure a disruption-free parade in Moscow.
Donald Trump has recently made various public statements, including announcing plans to release UFO files and mocking the NASA chief, while also proposing new retirement plans and being nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. These actions and remarks have drawn international attention and domestic discussion.
President Trump threatened to withdraw U.S. troops from Germany, citing disagreements with German officials, while also signaling a prolonged U.S. blockade against Iran which caused oil prices to surge.
Russia announced it would scale back its annual Victory Day parade in Moscow, opting not to display military equipment. This decision was attributed to security concerns and the ongoing threat from Ukraine.
The Students' Cultural Center Novi Sad will host the 'Rhythm of Europe!' festival from May 5 to 9, an annual event since 2007 celebrating May 9 as Victory Day over fascism and Europe Day.
Security concerns are overshadowing Victory Day parades across Russia this year, but a warlike festive atmosphere is still present in children's singing competitions, reflecting the ongoing conflict.
The Kremlin stated that a meeting between President Putin and President Zelensky would only take place to finalize a peace agreement to end the war in Ukraine. This comes as Turkey continues efforts to revive Russia-Ukraine talks and potentially host such a summit.
Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have denied Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico permission to use their airspace for his flight to Moscow to attend Russia's Victory Day parade. Fico had planned to travel to the event on May 9.
With the unveiling of the long-range hypersonic CJ-1000 missiles, China has surpassed the United States in the critical race to field practical scramjet propulsion systems, according to a mainland military magazine.
Alongside the ship-launched YJ-19, the CJ-1000 road-mobile cruise missile was one of two hypersonic missiles powered by advanced air-breathing scramjet engines on show during the Victory Day military parade in Beijing in September last year.
They are the world’s only two operational...
India sent officials to attend the Taliban's victory day celebrations at their embassy, a move seen as a boost to diplomatic ties between India and the Taliban.
India's Centre clarified that no Indian officials would attend the Taliban's 'Victory Day' event in Delhi, which marks August 15, 2021, when Kabul fell to the Taliban.
Moscow's Victory Day parade was notably subdued, lacking military hardware and featuring heightened security due to Ukrainian drone threats, suggesting a shift in Putin's perception of the conflict.
Croatian MP Dalija Orešković criticized the government on Facebook following an incident where Dražen Keleminec and his supporters shouted Ustaša greetings at a Victory Day celebration in Knin.
Croatia celebrated Victory Day with a central ceremony in Knin and a spectacular torchlight display on the Krk Bridge, honoring veterans and national sovereignty.
Vukovar marked Victory Day, remembering its defenders and emphasizing that Operation Storm brought hope for the eventual liberation of the besieged city.
The Croatian Air Force announced planned flight activities on August 4th and 5th in Knin for Victory Day commemorations, advising against drone use in the area.
The city of Rijeka celebrated Victory Day with a ceremonial parade, naval ships, and the lighting of 222 torches on the Krk Bridge in honor of fallen defenders from the county.
The Commander of the Estonian Defense League, Ilmar Tamm, stated in his Victory Day speech that young people must be shown their crucial role in shaping Estonia's future, including in AI-based defense systems.
An analysis suggests Vladimir Putin could face personal consequences for Russia's failures in Ukraine, with questions raised about his grip on power, particularly after a scaled-down Victory Day parade on May 9th.
An analysis by Robert Service suggests that Vladimir Putin is now a man on the edge, with a subdued Victory Day parade pointing to low morale in Moscow as the Ukraine war shows no sign of ending.
King Ibrahim of Malaysia, who attended the Victory Day Parade in Moscow, left Russia with a new luxury Aurus Senat limousine, a gift from President Putin.
Fighting has resumed in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with peace talks currently at a standstill, following a brief truce for Soviet Victory Day celebrations.
A Serbian opinion piece reflects on 'Victory Day,' expressing a philosophical sense of defeat and disillusionment regarding past victories and current societal conditions.
Russian veterans injured in the Ukraine war were paraded in Tatarstan, an event that highlights the human cost of the conflict and contributes to the evolving national narrative around Victory Day.
On May 9th, a maternity hospital in Vladikavkaz marked Victory Day by dressing newborns in pilot hats adorned with St. George ribbons, according to the news portal Meduza. This gesture sparked discussion regarding the use of national symbols.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has been making various public appearances and statements, including addressing workers in Kraljevo and holding a rally in Pionirski Park. His remarks have drawn criticism from opposition figures, particularly on Victory Day, regarding his political stance and actions.
The BBC's Russia editor, Steve Rosenberg, reported from Moscow's Red Square that this year's Victory Day parade felt significantly different, notably lacking the military hardware typically showcased by the Kremlin to project international power.
Russia marked Victory Day on Svalbard with flags and young people in naval uniforms, an act an expert believes is intended to challenge Norway's sovereignty over the archipelago.
Montenegro's Minister of Defense, Dragan Krapović, highlighted the country's historical choice for freedom and affirmed the military's commitment to preserving values of freedom, peace, and dignity.
Jeffrey Epstein's brother has publicly claimed that a recently surfaced document, purported to be Epstein's suicide note, is a forgery. The note has drawn attention for its unusual content, including comparisons to Donald Trump and the character Alfalfa.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky controversially ordered his military not to attack Moscow's Victory Day parade, a move that reportedly angered the Kremlin. Russia proceeded with a significantly more subdued celebration than in previous years.
The United Kingdom has dismissed Russia's call for the evacuation of Western embassies from Kyiv as "irresponsible and entirely unjustified." Russia's demand was made due to a threat of retaliatory attacks if Ukraine disrupts Soviet Victory Day celebrations.
Kazakhstan is marking a celebratory weekend with public holidays such as Defender of the Fatherland Day and Victory Day, featuring various concerts and art events across its cities.
Ukraine has continued drone attacks on Russian territory, including Moscow, despite a self-declared Russian ceasefire, leading some Russian cities to cancel Victory Day parades. President Zelensky also issued warnings regarding foreign officials attending the Moscow parade.
Russia has again urged residents and diplomats to leave Kyiv, warning of a possible retaliatory strike during a unilateral ceasefire declared by Moscow for the World War II Victory Day celebration.
Russia's Victory Day parade in Moscow featured no military hardware for the first time in nearly two decades, an absence interpreted as a sign that the Ukraine war is not progressing as planned.
Russia launched dozens of drones at Ukraine, an act Zelenskyy described as an "obvious spurning" of a ceasefire. Separately, Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine would not respect a ceasefire on Victory Day.
Ahead of its Victory Day parade, Russia implemented significant security measures, including temporary mobile internet shutdowns in Moscow and St. Petersburg and the cancellation of some mass events in Crimea. These actions were taken as the country prepared for its annual World War II commemoration.
Russia launched widespread missile and drone attacks across Ukraine, hitting railway infrastructure, industrial facilities, and causing casualties and gas supply disruptions. Simultaneously, Ukraine conducted massive drone strikes deep into Russian territory, targeting oil refineries and military complexes.
The Estonian city of Narva, bordering Russia, plans to display a poster depicting Russian leader Vladimir Putin as Adolf Hitler on May 9, Russia's Victory Day.
President Vladimir Putin's security has been drastically heightened in recent months, with the Kremlin reportedly fearing assassination attempts and potential drone attacks. Ukrainian President Zelensky also stated that Russia is apprehensive about possible drone strikes over Red Square during the Victory Day parade.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is set to attend Russia's Victory Day parade in Moscow, joining a small circle of foreign leaders. The event itself is being held under heightened security concerns, including fears of Ukrainian drone attacks.
Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas commented on the absence of heavy military equipment, such as tanks, from Moscow's Victory Day Parade. She stated that this observation speaks volumes about the current state of Russia's war efforts.
Russia's annual Victory Day parade in Moscow featured a noticeably reduced display of heavy military equipment, prompting international commentary on the country's current state. The scaled-back event has led to speculation about the reasons behind the change.
Krzysztof Tołwiński, a former deputy minister from Poland's PiS party, registered a public gathering for Russia's Victory Day, with his activists previously admitting to assisting the Russian ambassador in laying flowers at a monument.
Russia is set to hold its Victory Day Parade without tanks or missiles, reportedly due to fears of Ukrainian attacks. This marks a significant change from previous years' celebrations.
Russia has significantly scaled back its annual May 9 Victory Day parade in Moscow, citing fears of potential Ukrainian drone attacks. This year's event will feature less military equipment and fewer participants compared to previous years.
Péter Magyar, a rising Hungarian political figure, engaged in discussions with EU officials in Brussels, including Ursula von der Leyen, to secure the release of billions in frozen EU funds. The funds have been withheld due to concerns over the rule of law in Hungary, and a deal is anticipated soon.
Russian authorities might considerably reduce the traditional, pompous Victory Day parade ceremony in Moscow, according to journalist Alexandra Prokopenko and The Moscow Times.
Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD) reports an intensification of Russian war propaganda campaigns ahead of Victory Day. This includes the expansion of the 'Victory Dictation' campaign and other efforts as the Kremlin ramps up its messaging for the May 9 celebrations.
A Russian oil refinery in Tuapse has been attacked, with satellite imagery revealing the extent of the damage. Following the strike, Russian prosecutors were seen planting trees in the area ahead of Victory Day.
Marko Perković Thompson is unofficially slated to perform a concert at Šubićevac stadium on August 4th, ahead of Victory Day, with permit requests submitted and formal confirmation pending.
As Russia prepares for its traditional Victory Day parade, former Lithuanian diplomacy head Linas Linkevičius, currently ambassador to Sweden, stated that the Kremlin has little reason to celebrate and is 'doomed to lose'.
The Taliban envoy in Delhi marked Victory Day, emphasizing Afghanistan's geographical importance as a bridge for connectivity and cooperation rather than a field for negative competition.
The celebration of Victory Day in Rijeka culminated in a flare display by the Armada fan group, lighting 222 flares to mark the 31st anniversary of Operation Storm and send messages of unity.
Members of the IX HOS Battalion, including Miće Ćuk and Skejo, laid wreaths at the 'Oluja '95' monument in Knin for Victory Day, where they were filmed chanting the controversial 'Za dom spremni' salute three times.
Hundreds of torches lit up the harbor in Senj, Croatia, as part of a celebration on the eve of Victory Day and the 31st anniversary of Operation Storm (Oluja).
The Zagreb branch of the HDZ party criticized the absence of Croatian flags on Ban Jelačić Square ahead of Victory Day, calling it shameful. They highlighted the lack of national symbols on the main square for the important commemoration.
Rijeka is preparing to commemorate Victory Day, known as 'Oluja', with a special program including a procession, torchlight parade, candles, and wreaths.
North Korea marked the 73rd anniversary of the Korean War armistice with a prominent display of Kim Jong-un's daughter, Ju-ae, during a scaled-down military parade that focused on Korean themes rather than strategic weapons.
Tallinn's Old Town is bustling with tourists while many local residents have left the Estonian capital to celebrate Victory Day and Midsummer Night in the countryside.
Russia's Unified State Exam (EGE) in English now features questions about national holidays such as Victory Day, Russia Day, Defender of the Fatherland Day, and National Unity Day.
Police in Syktyvkar, Russia, are attempting to remove three schoolchildren from their families after the children reportedly climbed on a Victory Day photo installation, an incident described by mothers as 'goofing off'.
The article discusses pro-Russian manipulations claiming that the EU celebrates Europe Day to overshadow Victory Day, noting that many EU members observe Victory Day on May 8, not May 9.
Footage from Victory Day celebrations in Kemerovo, Russia, revealed the deep impact of the war in Ukraine on Russian society, including a controversial TV interview where a reporter apologized for calling a mother's pain a "double holiday."
Russia's Victory Day parade on May 9th was notably subdued, featuring less military equipment than usual and heightened security measures. Media reports suggested the scaled-back celebration reflected the ongoing war in Ukraine and concerns over potential threats.
The article discusses the choice between celebrating Europe Day or Victory Day, highlighting a preference for divisions and hatred over unity and respect, contrasting with the aspirations of ancestors for a peaceful Europe.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signaled his readiness for peace negotiations on Ukraine, with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy confirming these signals. Putin also proposed former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a potential mediator, a suggestion that was subsequently rejected by Germany.
This "Week in Pictures" report summarizes several key events, including the Met Gala's "fashion is art" theme, Russia's modest Victory Day parade, and the recent gains made by far-right parties in the UK.
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated his belief that the conflict in Ukraine is "coming to an end," a declaration made during a period that also saw him meet with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and offer a conditional meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky.
During a Victory Day parade, Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the crowd, invoking Soviet sacrifices from World War II to rally support for Russian soldiers fighting in the Ukraine war.
Buchlov Castle in the Uherské Hradiště region joined the celebrations for the end of World War II, offering visitors insights into military history, including displays of contemporary and historical weapons.
Tensions between the US and Iran have escalated, marked by military clashes in the Gulf, US attacks, and Iranian reprisals. The US has also imposed new sanctions on entities linked to Iran, while diplomatic efforts for a truce remain stalled.
Ukraine has reportedly attacked the oil terminal at the Black Sea port of Tuapse four times, just before Russia's Victory Day celebrations, leading military experts to describe Russia's air defense as 'stressed'.
Romanian MEP and SOS România leader Diana Șoșoacă participated in a reception at the Russian Embassy in Bucharest, celebrating Russia's Victory Day on May 9th.
Commemorative events, solemn acts, and military equipment displays are marking the end of World War II across the Czech Republic on Victory Day. Concerts are also planned in various locations.
Russia announced a truce for its Victory Day military parade, while Ukrainian President Zelensky accused Russia of continuing to violate a separate ceasefire proposed by Kyiv.
Russia has issued a warning to foreign embassies in Kyiv, urging them to evacuate their staff due to the possibility of "retaliatory" or "massive" strikes. This move follows alleged Ukrainian drone attacks and heightened tensions, with some reports linking the warning to the upcoming May 9th parade.
Ukraine announced it would not observe a ceasefire for Russia's upcoming Victory Day celebrations, citing Russia's disregard for previous truces and ongoing attacks. President Zelenskyy assigned intelligence tasks as Russia reportedly moves air defense systems to Moscow for its parade.
Both Russia and Ukraine have declared separate ceasefires in the conflict, with Russia's truce intended to mark Victory Day. Russia warned of a massive missile attack if its ceasefire is violated, while Ukraine's declaration came as a symmetrical response. Analysts are examining the reasons behind these limited ceasefires.
Worldle-mondeNPRruv+20lsm-lvtelextvn24die-presseThe IndependenthotnewsTimes of Indiahindustan-times+12 more3mo ago23 sources
Both Russia and Ukraine have declared separate ceasefires in the conflict, with Russia's truce intended to mark Victory Day. Russia warned of a massive missile attack if its ceasefire is violated, while Ukraine's declaration came as a symmetrical response.
Bangladesh celebrated its Victory Day, commemorating the nation's triumph in the Liberation War. The occasion included revisiting the Liberation War Museum and marking the 69th anniversary of the Bangladesh Chhatra League.
Czechia has granted permission for a flight carrying Prime Minister Fico to Moscow, even as neighboring countries have closed their airspace in observance of Victory Day, drawing attention to differing diplomatic stances.
For the first time in two decades, the Kremlin has decided to hold the Victory Day parade in Moscow without any military vehicles. This decision has prompted speculation regarding its underlying reasons.
Russia has expressed fears regarding Ukraine's increased military strength, particularly its drone capabilities, and potential threats around Victory Day, leading to actions like eliminating tanks.
Speculation has emerged regarding the Kremlin's decision to scale back its long-standing tradition of showcasing military hardware during the WWII Victory Day Parade.
Russia is set to hold its annual Victory Day parade without military equipment this year, a decision seen as reflecting the impact of the ongoing Ukraine war. Moscow reportedly fears potential Ukrainian attacks, leading to a scaled-back celebration.
Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly held a phone call with Donald Trump, during which he proposed a 'Victory Day' truce in Ukraine. The details of Trump's response were not immediately clear.
The "Ritam Evrope!" (Rhythm of Europe!) festival, organized by the Students' Cultural Center Novi Sad since 2007, will take place from May 5th to 9th to mark May 9th, Victory Day over fascism and…
Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski stated that the issue of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico's flight to Russia over Poland 'ceased to exist' ahead of Fico's planned attendance at Victory Day celebrations in Moscow.
Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation reports an intensification of Russian propaganda campaigns, including the expansion of the 'Victory Dictation,' as Victory Day approaches.
Russian authorities may cancel Victory Day parades in Moscow and St. Petersburg on May 9 due to concerns over new Ukrainian long-range missiles, according to reports from pro-Kremlin bloggers.