Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, May 4: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is unlikely to attend Russia’s upcoming Victory Day celebrations in Moscow on May 9, in light of heightened security concerns following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, according to official sources.

Instead, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth is expected to represent India at the event, which commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

While no formal reason was provided for Singh’s absence, defence officials indicated that the deteriorating security situation after the April 22 Pahalgam attack—where 26 people were killed—heavily influenced the decision. The incident has led to a sustained period of ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC), with fresh firing reported in Kupwara, Uri, and Akhnoor sectors.

The Indian Army has responded with restrained but precise countermeasures, as tensions with Pakistan continue to escalate.

Initially, Russian President Vladimir Putin had extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the high-profile military parade in Moscow. However, amid evolving security dynamics and pressing domestic priorities, it was decided that Singh would attend instead. That plan has now been revised, reflecting the seriousness of the ongoing crisis.

Diplomatic observers believe the decision to send a lower-profile representative highlights India’s cautious stance as it manages internal security and maintains international relations. The move has also prompted diplomatic chatter, linking it to recent developments in Kashmir.

Russia’s Victory Day parade, held annually on May 9 at Moscow’s Red Square, is a key event in the Russian national calendar. This year, President Putin is expected to host leaders from nearly 20 countries, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, as part of commemorations marking eight decades since the end of World War II in Europe.

Prime Minister Modi visited Russia twice in 2024—once for a bilateral summit and once for the BRICS meeting in Kazan. Russian President Putin is also scheduled to visit India later this year for the annual India-Russia summit.

Given the gravity of the situation in Kashmir and the political sensitivities surrounding the Pahalgam attack, the decision to opt for junior-level representation at the Victory Day parade reflects New Delhi’s focus on domestic security over symbolic diplomacy.