The Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov has hinted that Moscow would not rush to wrap up its so-called special military operation in time for the upcoming anniversary.
Lavrov has also revealed that Moscow’s upcoming Victory Day celebration slated for May 9 will not have bearing on the pace of current happenings in Ukraine.
“Our military will not artificially adjust their actions to any date, including Victory Day,” Lavrov said.
“The pace of the operation in Ukraine depends, first of all, on the need to minimise any risks for the civilian population and Russian military personnel.”
Accordingly, Russia specifically marks Victory Day with a large military parade in central Moscow and a speech delivery by President Vladimir Putin, the country’s leading role in the defeat of fascism in Europe.
But this year’s celebrations will come against the backdrop of Moscow’s bloody military campaign in Ukraine, which Putin has justified with claims the ex-Soviet country requires denazification and other allusions to World War II.
“We will solemnly celebrate May 9, as we always do. Remember those who fell for the liberation of Russia and other republics of the former USSR, for the liberation of Europe from the Nazi plague.”
He also added that Russia is dedicated to prevent a nuclear war from ever beginning.
Similarly, Moscow has said that over a thousand of its soldiers have been killed in the operation. Although Ukraine claims Russia’s losses are much higher.
Racheal/aljazera