German MEPs attend Moscow Victory Day in diplomatic gesture

The two members of the European Parliament from the pro-Russian and populist Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance – BSW – are heading to Moscow for the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. They are Michael von der Schulenburg and Ruth Firmanich, who, after their visit to Moscow, plan a trip to Kyiv.

In Moscow, the MEPs intend to "conduct talks with parliamentarians and other representatives of the political and cultural world" – they explained to the DPA agency. Their two-day stay in Russia, along with three other deputies – from the Czech Republic, Cyprus, and Slovakia – is planned during the time of the ceasefire announced by Putin. "We also want to send a signal that we are concerned about making the fire in Ukraine go silent forever," they assert.

Meanwhile, BSW founder Sahra Wagenknecht expects Chancellor Friedrich Merz himself to travel to Moscow for the celebrations – and this despite Merz’s repeated and strong condemnation of Vladimir Putin and Russia. "On one side, it would be an appropriate sign of respect and gratitude," Wagenknecht told the AFP agency. On the other side, as the politician believes, Germany could once again "emerge as a significant player on the international stage and take diplomatic initiatives for mediation."

Wagenknecht had previously demanded that German entities organising the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II invite Russian representatives. The German Foreign Ministry strongly advised against it and the entities themselves, including the Bundestag and memorial places, refused. However, representatives of the Russian embassy demanded invitations.

BSW and the far-right AfD are parties that do not hide their pro-Russian stances, a desire to warm relations with Russia, and limit aid for Ukraine.

On 9 May, Russia celebrates Victory Day over Nazi Germany, traditionally a day later than in Germany. A traditional parade is to be held on Red Square in Moscow for this occasion. Vladimir Putin announced a three-day ceasefire for this time. However, Kyiv demands that it lasts at least 30 days. Putin proposed it as the Kremlin fears a Ukrainian drone attack during the parade, which will be watched by numerous foreign guests from countries sympathetic to Russia, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is set to arrive for a four-day visit on 7 May.

Drone attacks in the Russian capital are recurring, but "The Washington Post" reports that such an attack during the parade itself is unlikely. Citing sources in the Ukrainian army, the newspaper states that instead, Kyiv might target other locations, including important military facilities.