UN chief declines invitation to attend Moscow’s victory day celebrations

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres will not travel to Russia to participate in the upcoming celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II, his spokesperson confirmed.

Speaking to reporters, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric stated, “The Secretary-General will not be able to attend those commemorations,” without providing further details regarding the reasons behind Guterres’ decision to decline the invitation, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

The announcement comes amid growing geopolitical tensions and shifting diplomatic dynamics surrounding commemorative events in Moscow. The Kremlin had earlier indicated it did not expect Guterres to be present at the May 9 Victory Parade, a central event in Russia’s national calendar, commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945.

While the absence of the UN chief may be seen as a diplomatic signal, Russian officials noted continuing international interest in the event. On April 25, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov remarked that “a whole number” of MPs from France had expressed interest in attending the parade in Moscow. He interpreted their willingness to participate as a sign of “fundamentally different views on our common history” and “common future.”

The Victory Day celebrations, traditionally held in Red Square, are expected to include a large military parade and a series of state-led ceremonies. This year’s event carries added symbolic weight as it marks eight decades since the historic victory, which remains a cornerstone of Russia’s national identity.

By Vafa Guliyeva