Putin faces diplomatic snub as leaders skip Victory Day
The number of countries whose heads of state will attend the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow is declining. The President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has joined this large group. Vladimir Putin's officials do not hide their irritation about this development. They consider such behaviour "unfortunate."
The Russians are preparing for the Victory Day celebrations, which will take place on May 9. A traditional military parade will march through Moscow to commemorate the victory in World War II.
As every year, Vladimir Putin intends to use the event for propaganda purposes. He has invited politicians from around the world who are neutral or positive towards him.
Originally, representatives from Pakistan, leaders of India, South Africa, Indonesia, and top representatives of Iran were expected to participate in the celebrations. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's participation, along with that of the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, was also considered.
However, the number of guests at Vladimir Putin's is decreasing significantly. Orban will not appear in Moscow. Representatives from Pakistan have completely withdrawn their delegation. Ministers will represent India, South Africa, and Indonesia, and Iran will send an ambassador.
Azerbaijan has also withdrawn its delegation. Aliyev has confirmed that he will not participate in the Victory Day celebrations. This has upset Vladimir Putin's officials.
When asked about the Azerbaijani delegation’s withdrawal, one of the Russian leader's advisers commented that this was regrettable conduct and that attendance at the celebrations would have been appropriate, especially in light of Aliyev Senior.
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The father of Ilham Aliyev was an NKVD officer and one of the important officials in the USSR from 1940 to 1987. In 1993, he became the first president of Azerbaijan.
