Allies snub Putin: Victory Day guest list dwindles
The number of countries whose heads of state will attend the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow is decreasing. The President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has decided not to attend, joining a growing group. Vladimir Putin's aides have expressed their irritation, referring to such behavior as "unfortunate."
The Russians are preparing for the Victory Day celebrations, scheduled for May 9. A traditional military parade will march through Moscow to commemorate the victory in World War II.
As in previous years, Vladimir Putin hopes to use the event for propaganda. He has extended invitations to politicians around the world who are neutral or supportive of him.
Originally, representatives from Pakistan, alongside leaders from India, South Africa, and Indonesia, and top officials from Iran, were expected to participate in the celebrations. The attendance of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev was also considered likely.
However, Vladimir Putin's expected number of guests is decreasing significantly. Orban has confirmed he will not attend, and the Pakistani representatives have completely withdrawn their delegation. Ministers will represent India, South Africa, and Indonesia, while Iran will send an ambassador.
Azerbaijan has also withdrawn its delegation. Aliyev has officially confirmed that he will not participate in the Victory Day celebrations. This decision has upset Vladimir Putin's aides.
When asked about the Azerbaijani delegation’s withdrawal, one of the Russian leader’s advisers expressed disappointment, suggesting that attendance at the celebrations would have been fitting, particularly in light of Aliyev Senior’s legacy.
Read also: The President of China flies to Russia. An expert believes it's a signal for Europe and the USA
The father of Ilham Aliyev served as an NKVD officer and was a significant official in the USSR from 1940 to 1987. In 1993, he became the first president of Azerbaijan.
