MOSCOW EVENTS
Bandung and the fruits of Nehru’s mango diplomacy
In 1955, Prime Minister Nehru used mangoes—specifically Alphonsos—as a soft power tool during pivotal Cold War diplomacy. These sweet gestures, such as sharing mangoes with Chinese Premier Chou En-Lai, helped ease tensions and build trust among leaders at the historic Bandung Conference in Indonesia. The summit marked the rise of the Non-Aligned Movement, offering an alternative to U.S.-Soviet polarization.
With India-Pakistan escalating conflict, Delhi identifies metro stations, basements as public air raid shelters
Delhi Police is boosting emergency readiness by identifying underground shelters and forming a specialised disaster response unit. Basements and metro stations are being earmarked as safe zones, while police compile lists of vulnerable residents for quick evacuation. The Delhi Police Disaster Response Force is also being trained for air raids and CBRN threats. The plan draws from global examples, where underground metros have long served as bomb shelters during conflict, from London in WWII to Kyiv in 2023.
How Putin uses USSR's victory in World War II to rally support for him and war in Ukraine
Russia observes Victory Day on May 9, a key holiday. It commemorates the Soviet Union's World War II sacrifice. President Vladimir Putin uses the day to promote patriotism. He also justifies the Ukraine invasion. The celebrations face challenges this year. These include drone attacks and internet outages. The day remains crucial for Russia and Putin's policies.
China's Xi arrives in Moscow in show of support for Putin after Ukrainian drones target capital
President Xi Jinping's visit to Moscow occurs amidst escalating tensions, highlighted by Ukrainian drone attacks on the Russian capital. Xi's presence at the World War Two commemoration parade offers Putin a significant diplomatic boost, showcasing a united front against perceived U.S. dominance.
Putin completes quarter century, polls show he's still popular in Kremlin's hot seat
Vladimir Putin marked 25 years as Russia's leader, rising from an obscure ex-KGB colonel to a dominant political figure. He addressed the search for a successor while highlighting his achievements in stabilizing Russia after Yeltsin's turbulent era.
UAE Deputy Prime Minister Shiekh Saif visits Russia as President Trump announces his first GCC visit
Amidst global tensions, the UAE is emerging as a significant diplomatic force. Sheikh Saif's visit to Moscow highlights the UAE's neutral stance. The UAE is fostering cooperation with both Russia and the US. It emphasizes religious tolerance and regional stability. The UAE facilitated a Russia-Ukraine prisoner exchange. Donald Trump's upcoming visit to Gulf countries underscores the region's importance.
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Ukraine drone attacks briefly shut down Moscow's international airports
Moscow airports faced temporary flight suspensions due to intercepted Ukrainian drones. The attacks occurred amidst preparations for Victory Day. Celebrations will mark the 80th anniversary with leaders like Xi Jinping and Lula da Silva attending. Ukraine urged foreign countries to avoid sending military representatives to the parade. Both sides exchanged captured soldiers, mediated by the UAE.
Russia says Putin will travel to China in August
President Vladimir Putin will visit China in late August and early September, reciprocating Xi Jinping's trip to Russia for Victory Day. This visit continues a tradition of reciprocal attendance at major WWII anniversary events.
Kremlin says Russia still plans to cease fire in Ukraine from May 8-10 but will respond if attacked
The Kremlin announced that Russian forces intend to observe a ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8-10, following President Putin's orders to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany. While Putin hosts international leaders, including China's Xi Jinping, for celebrations, the ceasefire's implementation hinges on reciprocity from Kyiv.
Zelenskyy snubs short truce, won't play Putin's 'games'
Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Vladimir Putin's three-day truce offer as a theatrical move, expressing readiness for a full ceasefire while questioning Russia's intentions. The proposed truce coincided with Russia's World War II commemorations on May 9, raising concerns in Kyiv about potential disruptions and safety risks for foreign leaders attending the Moscow celebrations.
Zelenskyy refuses to guarantee safety of Putin's foreign dignitaries to watch Red Square parade
President Zelenskyy rejected Russia's offer of a three-day ceasefire for Victory Day, citing security concerns for foreign dignitaries attending the Moscow parade and demanding a 30-day ceasefire. Russia, through Dmitry Medvedev, dismissed Zelenskyy's concerns and warned of potential repercussions for Kyiv.
Rajnath Singh set to skip Russia's victory day parade; junior defence minister to represent India
Amid rising tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will not attend Russia's Victory Day parade. Instead, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth is expected to represent India at the Moscow event this week. Russia had invited PM Modi, but Singh was chosen initially.
PM Modi won’t go to Russia for May 9 Victory Day celebrations, confirms Kremlin
Narendra Modi will not attend the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow. Dmitry Peskov made the announcement. Several leaders, including Xi Jinping, may attend. Rajnath Singh might represent India at the parade. Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India later this year. Sergey Lavrov confirmed Putin accepted Modi's invitation. Preparations for Putin's visit are underway. The event marks the 80th anniversary.
US threatens to quit Russia-Ukraine effort unless 'concrete proposals'
Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned on Tuesday that the United States would give up on mediation unless Russia and Ukraine put forward "concrete proposals," as US patience wanes on an early priority for Donald Trump. The United States already put together a framework proposal which Ukrainians feel bows to Russian demands.
Russia announces 3-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8-10 amid Trump's peace efforts
The Kremlin announced a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to May 10, coinciding with Russia's Victory Day celebrations. This announcement follows increased efforts by U.S. President Donald Trump to facilitate a peace agreement in the conflict-ridden nation. Russia cautioned Ukraine against violating the truce, warning of a strong response if breached.
Shocked by US peace proposal, Ukrainians say they will not accept any formal surrender of Crimea
A Trump administration peace proposal recognising Russian authority over Crimea has sparked outrage in Ukraine, with officials vowing never to formally surrender the peninsula. Experts say such a move is politically and legally impossible, requiring constitutional changes and a referendum.
Why a 2019 Balakot response won't work for 2025 Pahalgam
Following calls for retaliation akin to the Balakot airstrikes, India faces a changed global landscape. Pakistan's alliance with Bangladesh and China, coupled with Chinese assertiveness in Ladakh, presents new challenges. India has also strained relations with Russia and there is some uncertainty with the US under Trump that could further complicate matters.
US offers to ease sanctions on Russia in Ukraine peace proposal
The US has proposed a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, suggesting a ceasefire that would freeze the conflict and ease sanctions on Moscow. This plan, shared with allies in Paris, involves Russia maintaining control over occupied Ukrainian territories, with Ukraine potentially foregoing NATO membership.
India-Russia partnership in a transformational era
In 2024, Russia-India relations saw significant activity, marked by high-level visits and forums. Prime Minister Modi's Moscow visit and the BRICS summit in Kazan highlighted intentions for a more just international order. A major investment forum in Moscow and a business forum in Mumbai underscored growing economic cooperation.
Career diplomat becomes the face of Trump's 'America First' agenda at the UN
Veteran diplomat Dorothy Shea, currently the top U.S. representative at the UN, embodies a stark shift in American foreign policy. Despite previously condemning Russia's actions in Ukraine, she recently voiced the U.S.'s refusal to back a UN resolution blaming Moscow, aligning with President Trump's "America First" approach.
Modi invited for V-Day celebrations, waiting for response: Kremlin
Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been invited to Moscow for the Victory Day celebrations on May 9, commemorating Russia's WWII victory. While Chinese President Xi Jinping has accepted the invitation, New Delhi has yet to respond.
Russia scraps Taliban's 'terror' label amid warming ties
Russia's Supreme Court has removed the Taliban's designation as a terrorist organization, signaling a shift towards closer ties with Afghanistan's current leadership. This symbolic move aims to foster economic partnerships and collaboration in combating terrorism, particularly against groups like Islamic State-Khorasan.
To be announced: MEA on PM Modi's participation at Victory Day celebrations in Moscow on May 9
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow on May 9, marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's triumph over Nazi Germany. While India's participation is yet to be confirmed, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh may represent the nation at the parade.
Indian tourism to Russia surges, mutual visits expected to hit 450,000 by 2025
A significant surge in tourism between India and Russia is observed, with Indian visits to Russia doubling to over 120,000 in 2024. Russian travel to India also exceeded previous years, reaching 160,000 in 2023. Both countries are working to simplify visa procedures and expand air links, potentially leading to over 450,000 mutual tourists by 2025.
Marco Rubio, Steve Witkoff head to Paris for high-stakes Ukraine war talks
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoy Steve Witkoff is headed to Paris for key discussions with European leaders on ending the Russia-Ukraine war. The visit, which includes meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, also comes amid recent US-Iran nuclear talks and growing concerns over Trump's tariff threats. Despite a deadly missile strike in Ukraine, Washington says peace efforts are continuing. Trade and security issues are expected to dominate the agenda.
23 Soviet troops turned to stone by aliens? CIA memo unearths Cold War mystery
A Cold War-era CIA document has resurfaced online, recounting a bizarre incident in which Soviet troops allegedly engaged with a UFO in the late 1980s, leading to 23 soldiers reportedly being turned to stone by a blast of bright light. Sourced from a KGB file, the story has reignited debates about extraterrestrial life and secret military knowledge, drawing both fascination and scepticism from officials, ex-intelligence agents, and the global public.
Russia says it hit Ukrainian officers' meeting in Sumy
Russia claims its missiles struck a Ukrainian military officers' meeting in Sumy, alleging Ukraine uses civilians as shields. Ukraine reports 34 deaths and 117 injuries, with President Zelenskyy demanding a strong international response. Global leaders, including those from Britain, Germany, and Italy, condemned the attack.
Russian missiles hit Ukrainian city of Sumy during Palm Sunday celebrations, killing more than 30
A devastating Russian missile strike on Sumy during Palm Sunday celebrations resulted in at least 34 deaths, including children, and 117 injuries. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy condemned the attack, calling for a strong global response. World leaders, including President Macron, criticized Russia's actions, while former President Trump expressed his desire to end the war.
Russia plans celebrations in multiple Indian cities to mark 80th anniversary of Great Victory
Russia is planning extensive Victory Day celebrations on May 9, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany. Ambassador Denis Alipov announced events in Delhi and other Indian cities, alongside mega celebrations in Moscow, where Prime Minister Modi has been invited.
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