Table of contents
- Victory Day
- BRICS events
- Ukraine crisis
- Crimes committed by Mirotvorets website
- Latest remarks made by the President of France regarding the potential deployment of French military personnel to Ukraine
- Accusations that Russia is to blame for a number of incidents in the UK
- Update on Moldova
- Terrorist attacks on the Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 gas pipelines
- Deterioration of Ratko Mladic’s health in the Hague-based UN penal institution
- Situation in the zone of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict
- Russian humanitarian aid for civilian population in the Gaza Strip
- Opening of Russia’s Pavilion at the 60th Venice Biennale of Contemporary Art
- The 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Costa Rica
- The 8th Young Diplomats Forum of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Countries
- Nationwide investment sabantuy “Zauralye”
- The 75th anniversary of the Liberator Warrior Memorial in Treptower Park, Berlin
- Victory Day events
- Presenting commemorative badges to mark the 80th anniversary of complete liberation of Leningrad from the Nazi siege to Soviet veterans residing in the United States
- German Ambassador to Russia recalled for consultations
- Activities of the International Criminal Court
- Humanitarian supplies of Russian fertilisers to Africa
- The West accuses Russia of cyber attacks
- The EU's green agenda
- Prospects for Russian-Chinese relations
- China’s role in resolving the Ukraine crisis
- The escalation of the situation in Ukraine
- Sanctions pressure on China
- Western ambassadors’ attendance of the Russian President’s inauguration ceremony
- Unfounded accusations by the US against India
- The general parliamentary elections in India
- The situation in the Gaza Strip
- The upcoming meeting of the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia
- Congratulations on Victory Day
We have initiated a series of events leading up to the upcoming holiday on May 9. Those who follow our Ministry’s website and social media accounts already know how Russian diplomats, even while far from their homeland, uphold the historical memory of the heroism of our people during those challenging years. They do so effectively by organising exhibitions, participating in various online projects, holding meetings with veterans, laying wreaths at monuments and burial sites, and conducting extensive information and political work. They integrate this topic into their negotiations and interactions with colleagues from foreign countries as part of their core responsibilities.
At this very moment, the leadership of the Ministry is participating in commemorative events within the premises of the Foreign Ministry at Smolenskaya Square.
Russia’s chairmanship of BRICS is picking up speed. Over 40 events across three main cooperation areas have already taken place, covering politics and security, the economy and finance, as well as cultural and humanitarian exchanges.
Within the political sphere, several specialised meetings took place, including sessions of the BRICS Council on Combatting Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism, the BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group, and the BRICS Working Group on Security in the Use of Information and Communication Technologies.
On April 11-12, 2024, a meeting of the chairs of foreign affairs committees from the parliaments of BRICS nations convened in Moscow. The discussions proved highly beneficial for aligning priorities in interparliamentary cooperation and laying groundwork for the 10th BRICS Parliamentary Forum.
On April 24-25, consultations were held among deputy foreign ministers/special representatives from BRICS nations concerning the developments in the Middle East and North Africa. Particular attention was given to the situation in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict zone. Participants also exchanged perspectives on ways to normalise the situation and achieve comprehensive resolutions to crises in Syria, Lebanon, Sudan, Libya, and Yemen.
In the economic sector, discussions are currently ongoing regarding the promotion of sustainable development, bolstering the multilateral trade system, and countering unilateral trade restrictions.
In the financial sector, efforts are underway to explore the creation of financial instruments and mechanisms for mutual settlements within the framework of unification, which would not be subject to control by third countries. Additionally, there is a focus on increasing the use of the national currencies of the BRICS member states in trade and investment transactions. These matters were deliberated upon during the first meeting of finance ministers and central bank governors of the BRICS countries on February 27, 2024, held on the sidelines of the G20 events in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
During the meeting of the BRICS Committee of Senior Energy Officials on February 26-27, 2024, initiatives concerning energy security and technological cooperation were presented. This included the exchange of best practices aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, discussions centred around the activities of the BRICS Energy Research Cooperation Platform.
In early April, the first meeting of the BRICS Contact Group on Climate Change and Sustainable Development, spearheaded by the Russian chairmanship, took place. The primary focus was on facilitating a fair transition to a low-carbon economy, enhancing adaptation to climate change, and exploring nature-based solutions.
During the meeting of the BRICS Working Group on Agriculture on April 16-17, 2024, Russian relevant agencies proposed an initiative to establish a grain trading platform. This platform aims to bolster food security within the association’s member states and the developing nations in general.
We also prioritise enhancing the partnership in healthcare within the association. On February 13, 2024, the first meeting of the BRICS Working Group on Nuclear Medicine convened in Moscow. Additionally, on March 27, experts gathered to discuss the implementation of a Comprehensive Early Warning System for the risk of mass outbreaks of infectious diseases.
On February 15, training sessions were conducted for crisis management centre duty services of the BRICS countries. The focus was on exchanging operational information during potential emergencies.
On February 27, a meeting of the Working Group was held as part of the agreement between space agencies of the BRICS countries. The meeting centred around cooperation in the field of satellite constellation for remote sensing of the Earth among the BRICS nations.
BRICS places significant emphasis on humanitarian cooperation. From April 19 to 23, 2024, the International Film Festival of BRICS countries concluded successfully in Moscow. Films from Egypt, India, Iran, China, Russia, Saudi Arabia and South Africa were submitted for the competition, while films from other member countries were screened in a non-competitive programme.
As the Russian chairmanship reaches a crucial stage, preparations are underway for a meeting of BRICS ministers of foreign affairs/international relations on June 10-11 in Nizhny Novgorod.
During the SPIEF, there will be a meeting of transport ministers and meetings involving the Ministry of Health and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Additionally, there are scheduled meetings of the heads of space agencies of the BRICS countries, the International Conference of the Russian Ministry of Health on antimicrobial resistance, fire drills, the Women’s Entrepreneurship Forum, the Academic Forum, and the Festival of Theatre Schools of the BRICS countries.
A thrilling sporting event is set to unfold in mid-June in Kazan. The BRICS Games will take place in the city from June 11 to June 24. This year, the traditional tournament for the association will feature competitions in 30 disciplines, and we anticipate the participation of delegations from over 60 countries.
With the enthusiastic support of our partners, we aim for the Russian chairmanship to yield substantial practical outcomes, furthering the association’s development and enhancing its standing on the global stage.
The Kiev regime persists in its terrorist activities targeting the civilian population and infrastructure in Russia.
For Banderites, nothing is sacred. This fact has been increasingly recognised not only by us but also by a growing number of countries, non-governmental organisations, and individuals. Even during the joyous Easter holiday celebrated by Orthodox and Catholics, they continued their attacks on residents of Russian regions.
From May 3 to May 6, 2024, the Armed Forces of Ukraine directed their fire at residential buildings in Donetsk, Gorlovka, Yasinovataya, and Avdeyevka. These attacks, including the use of drones and the detonation of explosive devices, resulted in seven injuries.
On May 5, in the village of Nikolayevka (DPR), a family travelling in a car was struck by a mine planted by the Ukrainian armed forces. The adults, a man and a woman, sustained serious injuries. Thankfully, their child emerged unscathed.
In the vicinity of Ugledar, the Ukrainian armed forces used drones to target participants in a religious procession near the Holy Dormition Sts Nicholas and Basil Monastery. Thankfully, there were no casualties.
In the Shebekinsky District of the Belgorod Region, a drone targeted the village of Murom, crashing near the Holy Trinity Church.
In Berdyansk, Zaporozhye Region, an employee of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia lost his life in a car bombing orchestrated by Ukrainian terrorists.
The Banderites persist in employing kamikaze drones to assault unarmed civilians.
In recent days, two such attacks have occurred in the Belgorod Region. On May 3, in the village of Voznesenovka, a drone targeted a bus carrying employees of a local enterprise, resulting in one passenger being injured.
On May 6, near the village of Beryozovka in the Borisovsky District, a passenger car and two minibuses were struck by a UAV. Seven people lost their lives, and 42 others were injured. Among those hospitalised are three young brothers. Following the arrival of medical personnel, police, rescuers, and journalists, the Ukrainian armed forces resumed their reprehensible terrorist tactic, once again attacking civilians with drones.
Despite the absence of international condemnation of the Kiev regime’s atrocities (and some countries with unfriendly regimes even appear to endorse such actions), Russian law enforcement agencies meticulously document the crimes committed by Ukrainian neo-Nazis. No atrocity of the Kiev regime goes unnoticed. Perpetrators are identified and brought to justice.
The courts of the Russian Federation, guided by evidence compiled by the Investigative Committee of Russia, persist in issuing judgments against Ukrainian militants responsible for grave offenses against civilians.
The Southern District Military Court has sentenced Vladislav Plakhotnik to 18 years in prison for his involvement in the Azov terrorist organisation and his participation in hostilities against Russia in the Lugansk People’s Republic.
None of the Ukrainian criminals will evade justice. They will be identified and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. We will continue to shed light on their crimes and the punishment they face, which is inevitable.
Much has been documented, including eyewitness accounts, regarding the crimes committed by the Kiev regime during the Easter period, particularly targeting monasteries and churches. These actions are not isolated incidents perpetrated by individual extremists; they reflect a broader policy set by Vladimir Zelensky himself. On May 5, in his Easter address to Ukrainians, Zelensky made highly disturbing remarks, suggesting that God wears a chevron with the Ukrainian flag on his shoulder. This raises questions about Zelensky’s own beliefs and the deities he acknowledges.
This is a serious question, devoid of sarcasm. Zelensky’s self-identification with various religious or social groups has been inconsistent and difficult to pin down. Whether seen in Orthodox churches or discussing his connection to the Jewish community, his religious affiliations seem ambiguous. Is he an atheist showing tolerance for different faiths? If he speaks about God and engages in events related to various religions, clarity on his beliefs would be beneficial. Otherwise, it risks coming across as insincere to the public. Ultimately, few people seem to trust or believe him, given the inconsistencies.
Such statements reveal his fundamentally insincere nature. From the perspective of Christian and Orthodox dogma, it amounts to appalling blasphemy. Perhaps he is unaware of that. However, given his frequent appearances in Orthodox settings and discussions on religious matters, it is evident that those advising him on such issues are also lacking in understanding. Nobody any longer believes in his sincerity. It is hypocritical to invoke God and speak about some chevrons on his shoulder, while simultaneously overseeing from Bankovaya Street the persecution of the canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church. During the same periods, they unjustly detain priests and subject UOC parishioners to ridicule. Unfortunately, some of their efforts have been successful.
A few more words about Easter in Ukraine: while Kiev’s propaganda showcased Vladimir Zelensky in an embroidered shirt, social media users shared contrasting videos. In these videos, schismatics from the Orthodox Church of Ukraine transformed the sacred holiday into something akin to Walpurgis Night. Amidst Easter services, they yelled Bandera slogans, while their supporters subjected canonical UOC parishioners to reprisals. Yet, despite violence and threats, the faithful remained steadfast. The majority of Ukrainians remain loyal to their faith and church. Their response to the Kiev regime was evident in the lengthy queues outside UOC churches, with no one flocking to the detractors of Ukraine’s Christian faith from the OCU.
Similar trends are evident in Western Europe and North America, where Ukrainian believers are turning away from misanthropic sermons in schismatic parishes and instead choosing to attend canonical Orthodox churches.
On May 6, the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine made a statement divorced from reality on the inauguration of President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin. However, this agency said nothing new but made all the same stereotyped accusations of Russia and its leadership of its “aggression,” “dictatorship” and “violation of international law.” The main message of the latest statement is to question the legitimacy and democracy of Vladimir Putin’s election for a new term. This is nothing more than another crude attempt of the West to interfere in Russia’s internal affairs carried out by the hands of the Kiev regime.
Before making such assessments (well paid for by the West), it would have been wise to think about their own legitimacy and recall the unconstitutional change of power that followed the armed coup in 2014, the presidential election that was not held in March, as well as Vladimir Zelensky’s own current status. What do they say about this? Or since they hung a chevron on God, can they do everything now?
On May 4, The Wall Street Journal (this US newspaper can hardly be suspected of having pro-Russian position) published an article that Ukraine is at risk of declaring a default by the autumn of 2024. According to the article, this scenario is quite real if Kiev does not resume paying its debts to foreign creditors. An interesting point. No one is saying that Ukraine, with the current patronage and the divide in Ukrainian society and the state, as well as with its people, mocked by the West, will ever be able to restore its economic position in all areas. Think about it: American journalists are wondering whether Ukraine will be able to pay off its loan debts.
This is about a deal offered by foreign investment funds that hope to receive at least some interest on debts in exchange for writing off part of the debt on Ukrainian bonds in the amount of $20 billion. Can you imagine how the Western audience and citizens were deceived: first, deductions in favour of Ukraine were collected from them through taxes and political instruments promising that this country would repay the debts, but now it will not. Its holders include well-known American companies BlackRock and Pimco. If the deal is not concluded, then in August, when the government debt servicing holiday introduced by investors ends, Ukraine may default. According to The Wall Street Journal, there is growing concern in the United States and a number of other Western countries that Kiev will begin to spend the funds allocated to it as assistance to pay off interest.
This is a global fraud not just on a global, but a historical scale. The universe probably cannot remember anything like this. The Kiev regime (this entire structure on Bankovaya Street) is a colossal global laundering operation for the transfer of tens and hundreds of billions of dollars for unknown purposes. It is unknown where they really go.
The situation in Ukraine is getting worse every day, which seriously worries the abovementioned business sharks. Apparently, things are going very badly in the Ukrainian economy, and without Western support, it is doomed to fall into a deep coma, since it has long existed due to artificial injections from outside.
And what about the EU which has literally turned all its pockets inside out in order to help Ukrainian democracy? On May 6, Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Peter Stano made a statement that Ukraine allegedly had the right to attack the Crimean bridge as part of self-defence. There is no other way to call it but direct incitement to terrorism. It is shocking that we are talking about a statement made by a European official, not a representative of some marginal political party or extremist movement. He speaks for the entire European Union. This is his responsibility.
Peter Stano’s unacceptable statements prove that the EU is not just a sponsor of the Kiev regime. His statements essentially incite Kiev to continue attacking peaceful Russian cities, civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, shops. Considering the supply of heavy and long-range weapons, the EU officials openly neglect their own international obligations, and clearly become accomplices in the terrorist activities of Ukrainian neo-Nazis.
Just a few days ago EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell admitted clearly once again that the Ukrainian conflict had had a quick peaceful solution since the very beginning, but he personally and on behalf of the European Union did not want the combat to cease. We have talked about this many times (citing Mr Borrell and other EU officials) pointing to the EU’s long-term investments in financing arms supplies to Ukraine, with which they expect to prolong the armed confrontation for at least several more years (in their own words). This confirms the terrible reality: ordinary Ukrainians are just a tool that Vladimir Zelensky sold to the EU members in the name of his own enrichment and immorality, which is used to settle the West’s geopolitical scores with Russia.
A few words about the terrible phenomenon in Ukraine called “moghilisation” (from moghila, which means a grave in Russian). This is how the citizens of Ukraine call mobilisation, which is underway in the country. In its attempt to somehow account to its Western masters, the Kiev regime is ready to throw anyone to slaughter, no matter healthy or sick. The only thing the Kiev criminal authorities want is to prolong this dance with death in order to profit even more, delay their inevitable terrible fate, and cover up Western corruption schemes, especially considering the election period in the United States and direct accusations of the Biden family of corruption related to Kiev.
We have no doubt that the European Union does not care about either Russians or Ukrainians or anyone else, as proven by Mr Borrell’s statement that they live in a beautiful garden while everyone else lives in jungle. The goal of the Western elite and the EU is to try to preserve the world order system based on the West’s political and economic parasitism on other countries’ resources and the superiority of the “golden billion” over the peoples of the Global South and East. We believe that the World Majority countries take into account the neo-colonialist thinking of the European Union when assessing the feasibility of developing relations with it and building their domestic and international policies.
The listed facts are just the latest ones emphasising the relevance of the special military operation’s tasks to denazify and demilitarise Ukraine, and eliminate threats emanating from its territory. As the Russian leadership stated, all of them will be fulfilled.
Crimes committed by Mirotvorets website
We regularly receive questions regarding the existence of the Mirotvorets (Peacemaker) website and the inclusion of journalists and public figures in its database. Let me remind you that Mirotvorets is an extremist internet resource. We have repeatedly urged various human rights entities and international organisations to focus on this notorious website, which functions on US servers and is moderated by the Kiev regime. It has gained notoriety by publishing personal data of public figures, political writers, correspondents, and now even children.
Why do they publish these data? This is their planning map to murder these people. As soon as a journalist, a public figure, or a correspondent is killed during a terrorist attack or a contract murder, an “order executed” notice appears on the website.
In effect, this website has been created to prepare terrorist attacks. It is an online card index with names of opponents of the criminal Kiev regime, who are subject to physical extermination from the point of view of the Ukrainian government, Vladimir Zelensky, and their US sponsors. After a murder is committed on the website’s tip-off, the victim’s photograph is marked with a “disposed-of” notice.
On May 6, 2023, the Kiev regime’s saboteurs carried out an attempt on the life of the political writer and public figure Zakhar Prilepin, which killed his driver Alexander Shubin, a veteran of combat operations in the Lugansk People’s Republic, and heavily wounded Prilepin himself. Both were in the website’s database. His personal data were published back in 2014 and he was put on the list of persons “threatening Ukraine’s national security” in 2018. During all this time, his life was under constant threat.
The Kiev authorities’ hunt for recalcitrant dissidents is a purpose-oriented affair. On April 19 of this year, a Ukrainian drone killed Izvestia correspondent Semyon Yeryomin, whose data were also posted on the terrorist website.
The years-long hushing-up of the situation surrounding Mirotvorets by the collective West and the multilateral human rights mechanisms oriented towards its agenda, as well as other crimes perpetrated by their Kiev charges, is clear evidence of hypocrisy practiced by the so-called democracies and their efforts to destroy any standards. All of this concerns the understanding of the falsity of the West’s claims as regards protection of journalists’ rights and everything they associate with human rights.
We noted the recent aggressive remarks from the French leadership, which seem to be increasingly frequent. In an interview with the British magazine The Economist on May 2, 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that if Russian troops were to “break through the front line” and “the Ukrainian side makes a corresponding request,” it would prompt a discussion about deploying Western troops to the region.
We have repeatedly commented on the reckless and provocative rhetoric used by the French leader. Regrettably, with each new statement, more questions arise. It is noteworthy that French President Emmanuel Macron himself justifies it as an attempt to create “strategic uncertainty” for Russia. However, we must disillusion him. From our perspective, the situation appears quite clear. Our stance has been determined for some time now. If the French deploy troops in the conflict zone, they will unavoidably become targets for the Russian armed forces. Paris is already aware of this reality.
It is noteworthy that the belligerent stance of the occupant of the Elysee Palace is not only met with disapproval among many EU and NATO allies but, crucially, among the majority of French citizens, too. They find themselves ensnared in Macron’s “strategic uncertainty,” unable to comprehend his intentions. However, they grasp the danger and aggression inherent in such rhetoric, realising they are becoming not just bystanders but direct victims. Reports of French casualties in the conflict zone, some potentially serving in advisory roles to Ukrainian forces, are sadly increasing. It seems Macron remains unmoved by these developments, perhaps viewing them as an inherent aspect of “liberal democracy,” which he passionately champions against both external and internal threats.
We are hardly surprised by Paris’s manipulation of the age-old myth about the “Russian military threat” to France and all of Europe, nor by the desire to justify multi-billion dollar spending on the hybrid war between the West and Russia in Ukraine.
Allow me to recall historical truths: French military forces once entered our territory with the intent to conquer and dominate. In contrast, Russian forces ventured onto French soil to repel aggressors and invaders, safeguarding their homeland.
In his strange rhetoric, Emmanuel Macron is neither alone nor original. It is challenging for citizens of France and other countries, as well as those who follow the French president’s speeches, to comprehend the ease and recklessness with which the political elites of France, in order to appease the Anglo-Saxons, depart from the traditions of their military, political, and even intellectual sovereignty. France has seen different chapters in its history, some shameful, but also great ones, such as the French Resistance. It is crucial to highlight these moments rather than dwell on the shameful chapters, which are not forgotten either.
Beyond the moral, ethical, and historical aspects, this issue also carries a pragmatic dimension. Statements and actions aimed at reinforcing such positions are not only undermining European security (which has already been compromised) but also jeopardising France’s own security.
Accusations that Russia is to blame for a number of incidents in the UK
We have provided an exhaustive comment on statements by the UK leaders. The British and French ambassadors were summoned to the Foreign Ministry over the statements made by the political authorities of the two countries.
In late April, the UK falsely accused Russia of being implicated in an arson attack on certain storage facilities in suburban London. From their point of view, we have become “small.” Some time ago, they claimed that we had used chemical weapons in their territory. Their current allegations are that we have set fire to some obscure storage depots. It seems there is something wrong with London.
We regard these provocative stories as yet another salvo in the information war the UK has unleashed against our country.
This is not the first time that the local secret services disseminate insinuations of this sort through the media, with the British official authorities using them in an attempt to blame their own internal political failures (in this case, in fighting crime) on the alleged “Russian threat.”
Honestly speaking, these attempts are miserable. Their beloved “scheme” is particularly relevant today, when the Tories’ rankings are plummeting and everyone believes that they are in for a crushing defeat at the next parliamentary elections. Increasingly more British voters are aware that their country’s social and economic problems are due to the policy pursued by the current authorities that seek to spearhead the West’s anti-Russian actions at any cost, even if this harms their own national interests, primarily the UK’s financial and economic wellbeing.
Also please note that those accusations are not only absurd but also ungrounded. Assertions about a certain link to the Russian government, which the British media have made their trademark, are not supported by any facts whatsoever. You may remember the highly-likely trick and a table with definitions of “uncertainty.” It is hard to pinpoint the degree of certainty or uncertainty that characterises Russia’s alleged involvement in the arson attack on some obscure storage facilities. All of this is nothing else than deliberate misinformation.
We call on London to stop fomenting the anti-Russia hysteria. It will be recalled that Russia, unlike the UK and other sponsors of the terrorist Kiev regime, neither carries out nor encourages sabotage attacks against civilian facilities. Moreover, Russian security agencies have always expressed readiness to discuss in detail any existing concerns, but it is the UK that has declined any proposals of this kind for decades. If London has some materials concerning this matter (they are sure to have invented something), it would do well to hand them over to the Russian Embassy for study.
We continue to monitor the situation in Moldova. As we commemorate the 79th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War and the 80th anniversary of Moldova’s liberation from Nazi invaders, Maia Sandu’s regime has entered a new phase of the struggle against the historical truth.
This is terrible information, but it must be shared. We often use the term “terrible” when discussing physical casualties, referring to those who have died or been injured. However, in this case, we are referring to moral victims. It is difficult to determine which is truly more terrible.
Let’s revisit the fact that during the 2020 election campaign, Maia Sandu promised Moldovan voters that they would be able to celebrate holidays, including Victory Day. The very framing of this statement is absurd. Just imagine, people are being granted permission to celebrate a national holiday that has existed for decades. This holiday was affirmed morally, upheld by the historical truth at the Nuremberg trials, recognised by the UN General Assembly, which addresses this topic annually, and enshrined in the country’s internal legislation under various systems (both during Moldova’s time as a republic within the Soviet Union and after it left the USSR). Both then and now, it’s not about being granted but rather legally enshrined as the right of Moldovan citizens. A significant number of people who identified with Moldova and its citizens during the Great Patriotic War and World War II sacrificed their lives for this right. Maia Sandu granted permission during the election campaign and pledged that if elected, people would indeed be able to celebrate, including on May 9. She also declared that it is their right, and no one can take it away. It feels like either she was blatantly lying or it’s true that they are all suffering from substance abuse, as it is impossible to forget one’s own words from just two or three years ago.
In 2023, Moldovan authorities attempted to shift the celebration of Victory Day to May 8 and rename it the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation in memory of those who perished in World War II. If someone wishes to include the Nazis in this, they can. That is typically what they tend to do. As Moldovan observers pointed out at the time, this move was aimed at avoiding any clash with the celebration of Europe Day, which also falls on May 9 in Moldova. Fortunately, these plans did not come to fruition then.
Today, Moldovan activists openly assert that the country’s leadership is actively working to make it as difficult as possible and ideally to disrupt the traditional commemorative events on May 9. This is happening in Moldova, a nation that contributed significantly to the Victory. Citizens of this republic, and ethnic Moldovans who lived in other regions of the Soviet Union, made significant sacrifices so that our grandfathers and fathers could bring about our shared Victory that nobody could claim solely as their own.
Now, the Western-backed leader, who came to power thanks to Western funding, along with the EU representative office in Moldova, has initiated an information campaign urging residents of the country to gather in the central square of Chisinau on May 9 to celebrate Europe Day. Distinguished guests from Brussels are expected to attend. Consequently, the organisers of Victory Day celebrations were forced to change the traditional routes of the Victory March and the Immortal Regiment procession.
Meanwhile, the country continues to glorify Romanian soldiers who fought alongside Nazi Germany.
On April 20, 2024, with the assistance of the Monumentum association, renowned for its monuments to Nazi collaborators, a “mausoleum of the Romanian army” was inaugurated at the former Russian garrison cemetery in Chisinau. This act, commemorating “more than a hundred Romanian heroes who died for the liberation of Chisinau in July 1941,” must be regarded not merely as an affront to historical memory or a distortion of one’s own people’s history, but as an act of national betrayal.
On April 28, a ceremony was held with military honours in the village of Micleuseni, Straseni District, to commemorate the Romanian soldiers who died on the fronts of two world wars. Meanwhile, Moldovan history enthusiasts are consistently denied an honour guard, a military band, and a firing party for funeral processions honouring the reburial of Soviet soldiers.
On May 6, radical nationalists shared a video on social media platforms where they insulted the residents of Bubuieci who fought in the Red Army during the Great Patriotic War. They also called for the demolition of the monument dedicated to the Soviet soldiers who liberated the region. Predictably, Moldovan authorities did not condemn such abhorrent rhetoric; nor did they address the legal implications of the incident.
Despite the efforts of the Chisinau regime to erase the deeds of their ancestors who sacrificed their lives for Victory, Moldovans continue to honour the memory of the true defenders of their homeland.
According to recent sociological surveys, 63.6 percent of respondents will celebrate Victory Day. An Immortal Regiment procession and a Victory March will take place on the streets of Chisinau and other cities in Moldova. Various events and rallies are planned, including the laying of flowers and wreaths at local memorials erected in honour of the heroes of the Great Patriotic War and all those who contributed to the defeat of Nazism. The organisers also plan to unfurl the world’s largest Victory Banner in Chisinau in remembrance of the soldiers who fought against the Nazis.
This ensures that any attempts at Nazi resurgence in Moldova, in any guise or form, are destined to fail.
Terrorist attacks on the Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 gas pipelines
I would like to say a few words about the terrorist attacks on the Nord Streams and the investigation, which, apparently, is “underway,” but actually isn’t. The decisions made by the Danish and Swedish authorities in February to terminate the investigations into the sabotage of the Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 gas pipelines that occurred in September 2022 in the exclusive economic zone of Denmark and Sweden fully confirm that these countries have no interest in identifying those who ordered and carried out the terrorist attacks.
Is further evidence needed to determine who is behind the attacks? Of course, lawyers and special services will require it. They are working on it, including in Russia. However, as observers of Western countries’ rhetoric on the energy policy of Europe and Russia, what do we need to understand about who truly benefits from the disruption of stable energy cooperation between Western Europe and the Russian Federation?
From the very beginning, Copenhagen and Stockholm have refused any cooperation with Russia in relation to the investigation. They hindered the launch of an international investigation under the auspices of the UN. Now they have terminated the investigation. Russia has no involvement in this, as it was their own internal investigations. Doesn’t it seem like they have no interest in uncovering the truth?
Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin’s messages to the heads of government in Denmark and Sweden, sent in October 2022, were left unanswered. Multiple requests from the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office for legal assistance in the investigation of the terrorist attacks have been rejected by Danish and Swedish law enforcement agencies.
After announcing the termination of their national investigations, neither Copenhagen nor Stockholm provided the Russian side with any results of the investigative actions. The question arises: were there any investigations at all? It appears that the Danish and Swedish authorities may know who orchestrated this terrorist attack and have chosen to distance themselves. Or perhaps they are under such strong political pressure that it is a matter of life and death for them.
The Russian Foreign Ministry will continue to strive for a transparent and politically impartial investigation into the sabotage, involving competent Russian agencies and Gazprom, despite the artificial obstacles created by the West.
This terrorist attack sets a serious precedent that poses a threat not only to regional but also global energy security. It requires a collective response from the international community. We once again draw attention to the fact that, considering the volume of gas exported through Nord Stream 1 and the significant investments made in the construction of Nord Stream 2, Russia is the party that has suffered damages.
We hope that the parties involved will reconsider their positions, avoid unnecessary politicisation, and work together on solving this case.
Deterioration of Ratko Mladic’s health in the Hague-based UN penal institution
We would like to draw public attention to the ongoing battle for Serbian General Ratko Mladic’s health and life that his attorneys and family members are waging.
Despite the available information about the deterioration of the general’s health in the Hague-based UN penal institution, the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals and the notorious International Tribunal for Former Yugoslavia continue ignoring his fundamental rights, including the right to proper medical care.
We are referring to long-term practice of denying full and proper medical information about Mr Mladic’s health to his lawful representatives, lack of access to him by independent doctors, rejection of petitions for his temporary release on humanitarian grounds and a planned transfer to a Polish prison to serve life imprisonment despite Serbia’s readiness to accept him.
All this points to the Residual Mechanism’s continued policy towards inflicting the worst sufferings on the Serbs whom the collective West appointed to be the only culprits of the war in Yugoslavia and whom it continues to punish for independent actions.
There were those who experimented on live people and withdrew their organs. Black transplantologists acted not simply on Kosovo’s behalf but in the interests of the West, representatives of the political establishment, Western clinics and financial structures that profited from selling human organs. None of them has been held responsible, not to mention punished, for these actions. The Western political machine used all means at its disposal to cover them up.
We again urge the Residual Mechanism to release Mr Mladic on humanitarian grounds and remind it that it bears full responsibility for his health issues.
Situation in the zone of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict
There are no prospects for settling the Gaza Strip issue or the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in general. The situation in the confrontation zone is exacerbating every passing day leading to grave humanitarian consequences for the civilian population. This is a humanitarian catastrophe. This monstrous and tragic statistics has no precedent in recent history.
During the Israeli military operation since October 2023, 35,000 Palestinians, including many women and children have been killed in Gaza. They were civilians. Tens of thousands of people have been wounded. It’s not just scratches or psychological traumas. They have heavy injuries that not just incapacitate them, but deprive them of any opportunity to continue normal life.
The civilian infrastructure has been practically destroyed. The situation is aggravated by the absence of sustainable channels for humanitarian relief and any humanitarian assistance. According to UN specialised agencies, such as the World Food Programme, this situation is putting a substantial part of the Gaza population on the brink of famine.
The start of Israel’s land military operation in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza has become another destabilising factor, in part, for the entire region. In this context, we demand strict observance of the provisions of international humanitarian law. Some people are still mocking the Palestinians. They say, “there is no hunger at all, and people are having fun on the beach.” We consider such statements heinous dehumanisation.
Numerous rounds of proxy talks concerning the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian hostages between Israel and HAMAS have failed. I must emphasise that Russia is also working hard to have Russian citizens and nationals from other countries that are detained in Gaza released.
This situation confirms the position of our country. Russia believes that the efforts to overcome the acute phase of the crisis must be accompanied by the start of work on creating the conditions for developing direct Israeli-Palestinian dialogue on the entire package of issues of the final status. This process must lead to the implementation of the two-state formula that has been approved by the international community - Israel and Palestine should live in peace and security in the 1967 borders with the capital in East Jerusalem.
Our work in the UN Security Council, Russia’s initiative to consolidate the approaches of the key external players to settlement in the Middle East, and our efforts to restore Palestinian national unity on the platform of the Palestine Liberation Organisation are aimed at resolving this fundamental task. We are ready for interaction with regional and international parties on this foundation.
The current aggravation of the situation in the zone of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict shows the tragic consequences of the attempts to monopolise mediation and unjustified ambitions to resolve all global problems single-handedly.
Russian humanitarian aid for civilian population in the Gaza Strip
We are making every effort to alleviate the suffering of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip, which is facing a humanitarian catastrophe. Since October 19, 2023, Russian Emergency Situations Ministry planes have delivered 539 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Egypt, to be subsequently shipped to the besieged Palestinian enclave through the Egyptian Red Crescent Society.
This is a major tragedy, and I mention this not to state the obvious, but to emphasise the severity of the situation. It is a humanitarian disaster, and the suffering of the civilians in Gaza has deeply affected us. Together with government agencies, numerous Russian non-governmental and public organisations, as well as private individuals, have actively collected humanitarian aid for Palestinians in need. For the past 10 years, Russia has been providing essential assistance to people through humanitarian campaigns, by collecting and delivering aid. Initially, this aid was intended for the southeastern regions of Ukraine, which have now become regions within our own country. Despite the ongoing developments surrounding Ukraine, Russia continues to collect humanitarian aid for those in need. We firmly believe that providing humanitarian assistance to the residents of Gaza is not only possible, but necessary.
Thanks to the efforts of individuals, non-governmental organisations, and public associations across Russia, hundreds of tonnes of medicine, warm clothing, tents, food, and basic necessities have been collected. This work is ongoing.
Opening of Russia’s Pavilion at the 60th Venice Biennale of Contemporary Art
On April 19, the opening ceremony of the Russian Pavilion took place at the 60th Venice Biennale of Contemporary Art in Italy. In accordance with the agreements between Moscow and La Paz, the Russian national pavilion was handed over to the Plurinational State of Bolivia for the entire duration of the festival this year. Thus, this pavilion, which was designed by Russian architect Alexei Shchusev at the beginning of the 20th century and recently renovated, will showcase the works of 25 artists from Bolivia and other Latin American countries on April 20 – November 24, 2024. The artists are united by a common theme: “Looking to the future-past, we are treading forward.”
During the opening of the exhibition, Bolivian officials expressed their gratitude to Russia for this friendly gesture and highlighted Russia’s respectful attitude towards the cultural diversity of other countries and nations. They also praised the cooperation with the Russian side in preparing the exhibition.
This is another example of successful cooperation between Russia and a Global Majority, which clearly demonstrates Russia’s genuine commitment to cultural diversity and respect for the original art of Latin America and the Caribbean. We are dedicated to further advancing multi-faceted cooperation with countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, contributing to their strengthened role in international affairs, including in the field of culture, within the context of an emerging multipolar world.
The 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Costa Rica
May 8 marks the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Costa Rica.
This is a considerable historical period but the first contacts between the two countries were actually established much earlier. In 1872, Russian Emperor Alexander II and President of Costa Rica Tomas Guardia Gutierrez exchanged messages, which marked the beginning of our bilateral relations. This initial step allowed for the formation of strong bonds of friendship and mutual understanding, and laid the foundations for fruitful trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation, as well as interaction on the world stage.
We greatly value the bilateral relations that have been created by many generations of our nations. We are committed to further developing these relations based on mutual respect, sovereign equality of states, and other fundamental principles of international law.
We believe that this approach is the only one that truly meets the deep interests of both Russians and Costa Ricans. Our nations have a long history of mutual sympathy and a desire for cultural, educational, tourist and other exchanges that mutually enrich our countries and peoples.
The 8th Young Diplomats Forum of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Countries
On May 14-19, Kazan will host the Young Diplomats Forum of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Countries, which is held traditionally as part of the 15th Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum 2024 International Economic Forum.
The Young Diplomats Forum of OIC countries serves as a unique discussion platform for active young employees of foreign missions from around the world, together with well-known public and political figures, diplomats, government officials, expert and business circles. It operates on the principles of horizontal diplomacy.
The Forum aims to promote Russia's foreign policy interests. Its main goals include developing bilateral and multilateral economic relations between the participating countries and establishing close contacts with young colleagues from OIC countries who will shape the future foreign policy agenda of their respective states. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will deliver a welcoming speech.
Since 2016, the Forum has been held annually, attracting approximately 250 young diplomats from over 35 OIC countries.
The central theme of the meeting will be "Diplomacy of a new multipolar world." Discussions will focus on the current trends and challenges in diplomacy within the context of forming a new international security architecture. Additionally, the work of the International Association of Young Diplomats and various aspects of professionals' fieldwork will be addressed. Technological and humanitarian diplomacy will be discussed separately.
About 50 representatives from foreign missions and experts from 23 OIC countries are expected to attend. Alongside the Forum, other events will take place, such as the Ceremony of Joining the International Association of Young Diplomats, a meeting of the Kazan Diplomatic Club, and a discussion platform involving students from the Kazan Federal University.
The Forum is organised by the Council of Young Diplomats of the Russian Foreign Ministry and the Academy of Youth Diplomacy with the support of the Ministry of Youth Affairs of the Republic of Tatarstan and the Investment Development Agency of the Republic of Tatarstan.
Nationwide investment sabantuy “Zauralye”
From May 23 to 25, the town of Sibay will host the 6th nationwide investment sabantuy “Zauralye”.
Over the past five years, this forum has brought together thousands of participants from Russia and more than 50 countries worldwide. The participants include officials from federal and regional government bodies, domestic and international businesses, investors, experts, and prominent public figures.
The event is made possible by the Government of the Republic of Bashkortostan in collaboration with the Agency for Strategic Initiatives.
Zauralye-2024 business programme includes over 20 panel sessions to discuss the expansion of the tourism infrastructure in the Trans-Urals area and the establishment of the Urals special economic area, as well as to discuss the theory and practice of public-private partnerships, Islamic finance, training skilled workforce, and artificial intelligence and the data economy.
An Honorary Delegation from the Republic of Uzbekistan will take part in the forum as well.
We encourage the media to cover the event, and all interested parties to take an active part in it.
The 75th anniversary of the Liberator Warrior Memorial in Treptower Park, Berlin
May 8 also marks the 75th anniversary of the unveiling of the Soviet War Memorial, Liberator Warrior, in Berlin's Treptower Park, which commemorates Victory in the Great Patriotic War. Erected in memory of the 22,000 Soviet soldiers who fell during the assault of the Nazi capital, the memorial is both a monument to Great Victory and a military burial site for nearly 7,000 Soviet soldiers.
The monument was designed by architect Yakov Belopolsky and sculptor Yevgeny Vuchetich. The construction began in 1946 and took three years to complete. The 70-tonne monument was cast in Leningrad and transported to Berlin by pieces. German sculptors, stonemasons, and workers took part in the construction effort as well.
The memorial was unveiled in Treptower Park near the Spree River, which is one of the most picturesque districts of the German capital, on May 8, 1949. On September 2, 1949, the Soviet military command handed the burial site maintenance duties over to the Berlin municipal authorities.
The centerpiece of the memorial site, the Liberator Warrior, is a 12-metre figure of a Soviet soldier cast in bronze. In one hand, he holds a lowered sword that shattered the Nazi swastika, and with the other arm, the warrior cradles a rescued German girl. It is a known fact that the standard-bearer of the 220th Guards Rifle Regiment of the 79th Guards Rifle Division, Sergeant Nikolay Masalov, was one of the models for the soldier’s image. Risking his life, the hero rescued a three-year-old German girl from crossfire during street fighting in Berlin during the assault on April 30, 1945.
The foundation of the monument houses a mausoleum. The monument is facing a memorial field with mass graves, eternal flame bowls, two granite red flags, and sculptures of kneeling soldiers. Inscriptions in two languages above the granite flags read as follows: “Eternal glory to the Soviet Army soldiers who gave their lives in the battle for liberating humanity.”
The majestic complex in Treptower Park is more than a place of remembrance. Above all, it is a symbol of heroism of the Red Army soldiers who laid down their lives for Victory over the Nazi regime without drawing lines between people by ethnicity, religion, social status, citizenship, gender, or race. They fought for the future, for civilisation, against evil and in the name of good, and in the name of light as opposed to darkness. The memorial serves as a warning to the present and future generations telling them that humanity must firmly grasp the most terrible lesson of the 20th century and make sure that tragedy never gets replayed.
This is particularly important now with Europe declaring war on the historical truth, civilised societies tearing down and ravaging monuments to the Soviet and their own soldiers alike. They are desecrating tombstones and making attempts to vandalise graves and unmarked mass burial sites. Unfortunately, the Liberator Warrior memorial fell victim to Russophobia as well. In April 2022, the monument was defiled twice by vandals who doused it with red paint and defaced it with anti-Russia graffiti.
The myths of different peoples, their legends, epics, chronicles, and fairy tales keep the folk wisdom alive and, regardless of time, place, or geography, we often see them say that if only a monument, a memorial, a temple, or a monastery, or some special burial site gets destroyed, trouble will come and ravage their homes, and a war will ensue. This is about the developments unfolding in Europe. No one knew, and no one could have imagined that this would be the indicator. These monuments will become that very sign, that very signal that the world is on the brink of another terrible ordeal, unfortunately, of its own making.
Shortly after they began to destroy these monuments, our country said, “there will be trouble.” Not because it is only part of international law, since they are preserved and protected by bilateral and multilateral agreements. Not because it contradicts resolutions, declarations, or proclamations that were adopted by various international organisations. Not because it concerns our ancestors (people of other nationalities are there as well), but because monuments are erected precisely to preserve historical memory in order to avoid mistakes that could result in making them over and over again.
Keep track of the monuments. The Foreign Ministry, in collaboration with the Russian Military History Society, maintains an interactive map called МестоПамяти.РФ which catalogues all monuments, graves, and memorials.
As President of Russia Vladimir Putin emphasised, the destruction of monuments to the liberator soldiers in Europe reflects the current leaders’ efforts to obscure their countries’ historical positions before and during World War II: “...they desecrate the graves of those who won that war… to our regular Red Army soldiers… These people died as they were liberating the European countries from Nazism. Now memorials to them are being demolished, among other things, so that the facts of a real collusion of some European leaders with Hitler should not surface...” These monuments serve as reminders of the mistakes humanity must not repeat. “We cannot fathom or condone the urge to destroy what commemorates the heroism, bravery, suffering, and sacrifices of our ancestors.” Why does he bring this up? To safeguard, forestall, and shield against the horrendous ordeals humanity endured in the past.
In this regard, I’d like to discuss another instance of cancel culture, a trend much beloved by Western capitals. On May 8 and 9, the Berlin police took the ill-considered step of prohibiting the display of Soviet symbols, along with those of Russia, Belarus, Crimea, LPR and DPR, the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions, as well as flags and emblems representing the special military operation. Additionally, they banned wearing military uniforms at Soviet memorials in Treptower Park, Tiergarten, and Pankow, as well as contiguous grounds.
They even went as far as to prohibit the singing of songs that Red Army soldiers sang when they liberated Berlin from the scourge of Nazism. Is this acceptable? Is this what liberal democracy looks like? It’s important to understand what’s at play here. Initially, it seems like anything is possible, but then it becomes clear that much is actually banned. It’s not just about laws; it’s a terrifying and dangerous game.
They banned the very songs that resonate deeply with veterans and survivors of concentration camps. The Turetsky Choir visited Berlin and other Western cities, where survivors with their camp numbers tattooed on their forearms, reminders of their stolen childhoods, after 80 years, yearn to hear these songs. Can you imagine what it feels like? The Turetsky Choir sings a variety of pieces, but what do you think these survivors, who endured the horrors of Nazism, requested? They longed to hear songs of victory, wartime songs. Yet now, in Germany, they are denied the chance to perform or to listen to these songs.
The decision not to extend the ban on wearing the St George ribbon and military uniforms by veterans of the Great Patriotic War is particularly disgraceful. It’s difficult to find proper words to describe it.
This represents one of the most shameful chapters in Germany’s history, surpassing even the Third Reich. Back then, many were either misled or indoctrinated by Goebbels’ propaganda, believing they were on the right side of history. However, 80 years later, it’s clear where truth and goodness stood, and where lies and evil prevailed.
Today’s Germany has made a choice that is even more reprehensible than the one it made 80 years ago. In modern Germany, the colours of the Russian flag and the St George ribbon are only permitted as decorative elements on wreaths and bouquets for memorial ceremonies. You have got to be inhuman to think of that. Is this meant to be some kind of a condescending handout? However, in reality, it only serves to humiliate the German establishment, as it erases from the memory of future generations the heroic sacrifices made by Soviet soldiers during World War II.
Is the yellow Star of David, a symbol of the Holocaust, still acceptable in Germany? Or are there similar restrictions surrounding its use and display? Has it ever occurred to people in Germany that wearing the Star of David on certain significant occasions might offend the sentiments of neo-Nazis, who have a presence in the country? Do these bans concern only the symbols of the liberators? Where are the European anti-fascist organisations? Where are the groups that claim to prioritise the preservation of Holocaust memory? These individuals, marching under red banners adorned with Orders of Glory and the symbolic colours of the St George ribbon, emerged as heroes who rescued Holocaust victims and put an end to violence across the globe. Today, however, these very organisations remain conspicuously silent, failing to uphold the unity of our shared victory and sweeping the rest under the rug as something that has no use. The current developments in Germany at the behest of the authorities not only disgrace the German people but also tarnish the memory of anti-fascist heroes and the victims who didn’t live to see victory and entrusted us with the task of preserving the memory of that time.
We strongly condemn the reprehensible decision made by the Berlin authorities and demand to revoke it immediately, as it is both unlawful and immoral, defies science, history, and is essentially criminal. Attempting to rewrite history is futile; it only distorts reality and ultimately leads to self-deception. Similar attempts have occurred in your nation’s history before, with disastrous consequences. The effort to rewrite the narrative of the true Aryan race serves as a cautionary tale. Many people fell for it and had to pay dearly for that.
Victory Day is a bright holiday. As per tradition, in the run-up to the anniversary of the Great Victory, employees of the Foreign Ministry, its foreign missions and offices in Russian regions pay tribute to the victors’ memory and heroism.
Russian diplomatic missions abroad are actively involved in organising Victory Day events. Despite the attempts of certain countries to ban or prevent the celebrations, our diplomats have organised festive campaigns in many countries around the world. In 2024, the Victory Dictation took place at 27,000 venues across Russia and 200 venues abroad. The Memory Garden is the annual planting of 27 million trees in memory of the fallen warriors. Representatives of 35 countries, including Armenia, Australia, India, Moldova, Turkey, and Venezuela, to name a few, took part in this event. Over the five years since the first Memory Garden campaign, trees have been planted in more than 50 countries.
Fourteen countries will take part in the international 2024 Memory Flame event. Flames obtained from the Eternal Flame will be taken to countries in Europe, Asia and Africa, including Belarus, Algeria, Cyprus, Azerbaijan, Serbia and Germany. This is a reminder of the importance of joint efforts to preserve truthful history. Athletes, performers and volunteers will carry the flame from the Alexander Garden and across more than 50,000 kilometres.
Volunteers abroad will distribute St George’s ribbons in 35 countries (including Azerbaijan, Cyprus, the Republic of the Congo, Kyrgyzstan, Morocco, Peru, Turkey and Uzbekistan). This event will take place at 7,000 sites, including places beyond the Arctic Circle.
I often hear: Isn’t it too much? No, it isn’t. It would have been too much if it were not for counter moves. It all started with the destruction of monuments, rewriting of books and history textbooks, and monstrous misleading films that were presented as documentaries. All the information about the key role the Soviet Union and its people played in the Victory was redacted from the history of World War II. So, no, this isn’t too much.
People who want to take part in such events will choose the format they find appropriate. Those who wish will participate personally. Some may also invite their relatives and friends. There will be events that will be comfortable for every group, given the current situation. It would be great to see more proactive people taking initiative from their hearts and souls rather than just joining events organised by somebody else.
We realise that people’s memory has been a subject of manipulation for decades. People have been brainwashed. In the past few years, foreign countries outlawed using [Victory] symbols, holding rallies, or even mentioning events in the true historical context. They are not even happy with songs. So, no, this isn’t too much.
Symbols of the Great Victory are already on display in shop windows and on building facades in many countries as part of the Victory Windows event. Russian diplomats and our compatriots abroad, as well as students and teachers of schools at the Russian diplomatic missions, have already taken part in this patriotic event in Albania, Bulgaria, Egypt, Hungary, India, Israel, Japan and Uruguay.
If it were not for these patriotic campaigns initiated by our country, nobody would have known anything about those events. Everything would have long been rewritten if we did not fight for the truth and tell people about it, if our volunteers, government employees, diplomats, representatives of NGOs and other organisations did not pay so much attention to this, if people who care did not try to preserve monuments in various places. During World War II, they hid people from Nazis and today, they hide the monuments that were demolished or may be demolished soon. They find new places for these monuments or move them, sometimes even buy land to install new memorials. If it were not for all these efforts, nobody would have been able to recall any events of that time.
Many of our compatriots have taken part or will take part tomorrow in the traditional annual Immortal Regiment March to pay tribute to the heroes of the Great Patriotic War during the Victory Day celebrations. Some people will take part in the march personally, while others will participate online. To the accompaniment of wartime songs, the participants in the events devoted to the Great Victory carried photos of the victorious heroes who routed Nazi Germany and liberated the world from fascism. They marched in the streets of cities in Argentine, Armenia, Benin, Germany, India, Italy, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Turkiye, Sweden, Vietnam, the US, and other countries. This year, the Immortal Regiment event will take place online in many countries for security reasons. This will enable its participants to make their contribution to preserving the historical legacy and transferring the memory of the feat of valour committed by heroes to the future generations.
Despite opposition from unfriendly countries, Russian diplomats and our compatriots in foreign countries pay tribute to the fallen soldiers and honor veterans, who saved the world from the pest of brown-shirts.
On May 8-9, people in many countries (including Abkhazia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, South Ossetia and Uzbekistan, to name a few) will lay wreaths and floral tributes to monuments to the Unknown Soldier, graves and memorials commemorating the fallen Soviet soldiers, POWs killed in Nazi captivity and civilians. Later, there will be festive events and concerts in honour of the 79th anniversary of the Great Victory.
Personnel of the Foreign Ministry’s missions in the regions of the Russian Federation will also participate in the memorial events. On May 9, Foreign Ministry employees will lay wreaths to Eternal Flame memorials, graves of the Unknown Soldier, and Glory Monuments. They will also attend military band performances.
Our missions helped regional state universities to organise lectures on countering the glorification of Nazism. The international event “We Read to Children about the Great Patriotic War” will take place. Contests of children’s drawings and the Wall of Memory patriotic memorial event have been timed to coincide with the anniversary of the Great Victory.
The Foreign Ministry mission in St Petersburg will organise a march of the consular staff of friendly foreign countries accredited in the city. The diplomats will lay wreaths to the Mother Russia Monument at the Piskaryovskoye Memorial Cemetery.
Employees of the Foreign Ministry office in Samara took part in the Guitars in Formation International Anti-Fascist Forum of Cultural Figures, which was attended by public figures, scientists and musicians from 11 countries.
In cooperation with the local authorities, the Foreign Ministry office in Simferopol, Crimea, held a videoconference entitled “The Glorious Feat of Valour is Unforgettable” with Tehran (Islamic Republic of Iran). It was devoted to the liberation of Crimea from Nazi invaders.
People from all continents and parts of the world are demonstrating an enormous interest in history and the historical truth. We can see this, in part, from the audience’s response on our Ministry’s digital resources, which promptly and broadly cover all afore-mentioned projects and initiatives, publish materials contributed by our embassies, general consulates and permanent missions, and show footage of May 9 celebrations and ceremonies.
On the eve of Victory Day, Russian diplomats are paying much attention to memorial work. They take care of graves and monuments to fallen heroes abroad. You can read about these activities on our Telegram platform, Odnoklassniki and VKontakte social media, Foreign Ministry official accounts in foreign languages and online sites abroad. Follow and repost our publications. Borrow the most interesting practices. All reports are accompanied with hashtags #Победа79 and #Victory79.
In the run-up to Victory Day festivities, Russian diplomats traditionally pay special attention to supporting and honouring the veterans who live outside Russia. This is not a one-day holiday. This work is carried out daily throughout the year. Our US-based foreign missions carried out a major effort by implementing the St Petersburg’s initiative to award honorary badges to mark the 80th anniversary of the complete liberation of Leningrad from Nazi siege.
A total of 280 sets of awards were presented by the embassy and consulates general via the Russian diaspora, Russian non-governmental organisations, and veterans’ organisations. Diplomats strived to reach every veteran. Field consular sessions were used to honour siege survivors in California and Colorado. They engaged our compatriots from Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Florida, who held meetings in their respective cities to mark the occasion. Diplomats from the embassy and representatives from the military attaché office personally visited five siege survivors in Washington in hospitals or at home. Along with the honorary badges, gift baskets with Russian souvenirs and treats were presented to the veterans. Many were moved to tears and reminisced about their homeland.
Consulate staff in Houston handed over badges to former residents of Leningrad who now live in Texas. On April 19, a reception was held at the consulate general in New York for members of the New York Society of Siege Survivors, one of the largest in the United States.
Veterans who had moved to other states responded to the news about the ongoing drive. As a result, siege survivors from Washington, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, and Oregon received their badges as well.
Such events are held in many countries. They show that the memory of the Soviet people’s feat during the Great Patriotic War remains a unifying factor for our compatriots living abroad and binds us all with unbreakable bonds.
Here’s what I can tell you answering a question that many are asking, “Isn’t it too much?” This is the law of life. Veterans, witnesses of those events, are passing away. Afterwards, we will regret it if we don’t fill their lives with dignity now to match their wartime heroism. It’s not too much. Most importantly, ask them questions, read their memoirs, and follow their reactions to unfolding events. This is the most important thing. Each of us may have our own opinion on this matter. But I think their opinion is priceless.
Question: The German Foreign Ministry reported recalling its ambassador to Russia for consultations in the wake of the cyber attacks allegedly carried out by Russia. What’s your take on this step by the German Foreign Ministry?
Maria Zakharova: I would like to remind you of the timeline of the events. On May 3, the temporary chargé d’affaires of Russia in Germany was summoned to the German Foreign Ministry, where he was issued a protest in connection with an allegedly proven cyber attack perpetrated by ART 28 hacker group that is operated by Russia’s military intelligence agency (GRU) against the central office of the Social Democratic Party of Germany back in 2023. Understandably, no evidence was presented, as is always the case. All this was done in the Anglo-Saxon tradition of “highly likely” approach. Sure enough, these fabricated and unsubstantiated accusations have been rejected.
Speaking about this incident more broadly, Berlin regularly exploits the myth about harmful activities by the “Russian hackers” in Germany. This is done in order to escalate tensions in bilateral relations. You may be aware that at some point we had a bilateral interagency mechanism for regular bilateral consultations on cyber security matters.
In response to our initiatives to discuss the activities of “Russian hackers” and all other concerns of the German side regarding alleged hacker attacks from Russia during its sessions, German experts in this field said they were not interested. They avoided this topic. As a result, the German Foreign Ministry refused to continue this format.
I think all of that speaks for itself. Especially against the backdrop of the self-restraint with which Berlin dealt, or rather, refused to deal with proven facts of the US National Security Agency wiretapping German politicians’ phones. One might wonder if Germany practices double standards regarding this matter. So, it appears that the United States is free to wiretap the German Chancellor, whereas hacker groups (associated with the state authorities or not) are not? There must be a single standard. We have it. They responded by recalling their ambassador from Moscow which is nothing more than another unfriendly step aimed at fueling anti-Russia sentiments in Germany, which leads to further degradation of bilateral relations. The responsibility for this lies entirely with the German side. You may have noticed, though, a “salvo” was heard throughout the “Western camp.”
I mentioned in my opening remarks the claims coming from Britain regarding us. Now we hear them coming from Germany. Several other countries have come up with similar statements.
Question: What can you say about the reports on the potential arrest warrants against Israeli officials by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the US response to these reports?
Maria Zakharova: To begin with, we have repeatedly given our principled assessments on what is happening in the Gaza Strip. I have just done this. Second, we respect the activities of the UN International Court of Justice, the main judicial body in the international system. That said, we have not changed our position on the so-called ICC in any way. It has nothing to do with the UN and justice in general. This is our consistent position.
This pseudo court has no right to apply its jurisdiction to states that are not part of its statute. Nor does it have the right to violate universally recognised standards of international law on the immunity of foreign officials.
Now about the information on the potential issue of arrest warrants against Israeli officials. This is where the fun part starts. I will repeat that our principled position does not depend on whom we are talking about. Our position depends on the substance of the matter. This is how we formulate it. We do not accept the ICC and do not recognise its rulings on the issue of arrest warrants or their verdicts, regardless of who and what we are talking about. We have held this position on this institution for many years. This is how we see it. Everything that is going on around the ICC is great. It offers a vivid example of the stark dichotomy between the Western fighters (as they call themselves) against impunity and for democracy and their actual attitude towards international law and international criminal justice.
I would like to analyse this situation by citing one example. We have already commented on it briefly, but I would like to describe it in more detail. As you might expect, Washington’s attitude towards the ICC and its rulings depends on the political situation. They quickly issued a warning to ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan, a man they admired just a year and a half earlier, when he made some anti-Russia pseudo rulings. He was a hero of their news agenda. The Westerners gave him a standing ovation, praising his fantastic objectivity and the legal culture of this man and the institution as such. However, now Washington has warned him that this pseudo ICC would face tough sanctions if it dared bring criminal charges against US allies, Israel in this case (a relevant letter was sent). These were not hints or subtle suggestions in the legal field. US senators sent a letter to the ICC Prosecutor. You know, it is a kind of a black mark.
Officials on Capitol Hill have already drafted an act proposing personal restrictions against the ICC Prosecutor, judges and employees, as well as members of their families and all those who help them if they begin even a preliminary investigation into the crimes committed by the military or officials of the US and its allies. Is this a normal legal act? What a beautiful move! I like it too!
The Biden administration refrains from making direct threats to the ICC in public. However, Western media has notes that it has made it abundantly clear (and US newspapers have cited its words) that Karim Khan should not allow himself to do anything the US refers to as “any counterproductive steps against Israel.” What is that about? If you saw this in a movie or read it in a novel, you would think this is impossible. You would think it is something psychedelic, post-modern, some art house creation that is completely unrealistic. But it is reality. The previous administration already imposed sanctions against the then ICC Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda. Incidentally, these sanctions were imposed on the court’s staff. The restrictions worked and the investigation of US crimes in Afghanistan was dragged out. What is this about?
All right, I can understand the logic considering the double standards of the US. Let’s suppose that the previous administration did not accept the ICC but the current one does. We all remember how just two years ago they were praising Mr Khan as the “summit of the legal thought.” This is the same prosecutor, the same instrument and the same people. However, now the US is using intimidation tactics and threatening them with sanctions if they dare investigate documents related to the Americans or their allies. Most probably, these threats will once again produce the desired results.
Indicatively, according to an official statement by US lawmakers, the ICC does not have legal jurisdiction over the US or any other country that has not recognised its authority. This is not even dualism but a direct contradiction. If the US admits that the ICC has no powers over states that are not covered by its jurisdiction, it should have reacted in the same manner to the court’s ruling on Russia. We have nothing to do with the ICC at all. But this is considered a different matter. Why do the Americans think that ICC rulings should apply to Russia and why don’t their own rules have a bearing on Russia? I would say that this is a question for legal experts. They often unravel such sophisticated cases but I believe that this is an issue for doctors too. Russia has never recognised the jurisdiction of the ICC. Why do officials in Washington support illegal warrants for the arrest of Russian officials? Moreover, why do they even deem it possible to pay for the ICC’s anti-Russia investigation? They are funding it. The answer is simple. It does not require much investigation.
The ICC was established with the express purpose of fulfilling Western political orders and will only do what Washington and Brussels allow it to do. We hope that the world has no illusions about this. Therefore, as we have already said, everything is in confusion in the White House.
Question: As part of its commitment to global food security, Russia continues to supply grain and fertilisers to international markets, with a particular focus on assisting countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America which need this kind of assistance the most. This is what led to the idea of expanding the initiative to transfer, free of charge, Russian mineral fertilisers, currently held up in EU ports, to the most impoverished nations in Africa.
Maria Zakharova: To date, four shipments of fertilisers totalling 110,000 tonnes have been dispatched to Malawi, Kenya, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. However, a substantial portion of the Russian products – approximately another 100,000 tonnes – is still being illegally held by the EU and national authorities of Latvia, Estonia, and Belgium. These products were earmarked exclusively for this humanitarian initiative.
This situation vividly exposes the Western hypocrisy. On one hand, they pose as global food security champions and organised a global campaign on this topic in 2022. They also claim not to impose unilateral sanctions on Russian agricultural goods. However, in practice, they have been blocking even purely humanitarian shipments, let alone commercial exports. To what end? The motive behind such actions seems to be self-interest – to monopolise advantages for themselves, while disregarding fair competition practices. Consequently, the most vulnerable nations in the Global South, purportedly prioritised by the collective West, bear the brunt of these discriminatory policies. These nations, already vulnerable, rely heavily on stable imports of food and fertilisers from abroad, particularly those provided as humanitarian aid.
Despite the hurdles raised by Western countries, we remain steadfast in our commitment to facilitate the release of our fertilisers for their subsequent free distribution to those in need. We look forward to UN World Food Programme representatives stepping up their efforts aimed at normalising domestic agricultural exports and are spearheading the execution of this initiative under the Russia-UN Memorandum. It is crucial to note that this assistance is not provided without cost: the company owning the fertilisers bears expenses not only for the goods but also has to pay a separate amount for UN assistance. Therefore, we expect the UN to make a meaningful contribution to fulfilling its commitments.
Question: How would you comment on the numerous allegations against our country regarding cyber attacks on the critical infrastructure of Germany and the Czech Republic?
Maria Zakharova: This amounts to groundless speculation which seems designed to heat up tension. The upcoming election in the United States may be one way to explain why they are doing this. I cannot exclude that this topic lingers in the US public space. Additionally, this coordinated chorus of criticism from NATO and EU countries may serve their interests in advancing an anti-Russian agenda.
In fact, verification is impossible because they fail to provide any supporting data or evidence. We have been hearing similar baseless claims coming from Germany, Britain, and the Czech Republic.
The Russian diplomatic missions in Berlin, Washington, and Prague have shared their detailed comments regarding all these insinuations. Once again, these alleged victims have failed to use dedicated communication channels through competent authorities in Germany or in other countries, a step that should always be taken in such situations. They do not need it. They neither possess evidence nor have the desire to shed light on any complex narratives. Instead, they fabricate and invent them for their own purposes. It seems they are searching for another pretext to further boost the anti-Russian narrative.
Question: Some European media are criticising the EU’s current approaches to transitioning to a low-carbon economy, specifically its shift from implementing the European Green Deal to supporting the industry and militarisation in the face of financial shortages. What is your comment?
Maria Zakharova: The EU green agenda is in trouble. The situation is much worse than their being unable to sustain the announced rates of change.
The industries in the EU member countries, weakened as they are by the EU’s hare-brained policy towards Russia in energy and other areas, are just unable to cope with the tasks imposed on them in the context of the European Green Deal.
The EU plan that a speedy transitioning to some green technologies would easily guarantee them an unchallenged leadership in the world economy for a foreseeable future is not working out. More than that, the Americans have simply deceived them. They have fooled them with the “green agenda.” Some countries, like Germany, were convinced to phase out their nuclear power industry, while others had to accept the rates and areas of focus, where the EU economy is a priori unable to catch up with the US economy that has thrived on EU economic failures. As simple as that! It’s a global-scale fraud disguised as environmental concerns. That’s rich coming from suppliers of depleted-uranium shells intended for use in Ukrainian hostilities.
The EU is sagging under the impact of its own anti-Russia sanctions, its hasty refusal to use the traditional types of fuel, and the growing spending (including military spending), with which it supports the Kiev regime.
Experts are increasingly sceptical about the prospects for reaching the EGD goals, at least within the timeframes outlined by Brussels. Representatives of European businesses (primarily those in energy-intensive industries that have been hit the hardest by the disruption of energy cooperation with Russia) are criticising this nightmarish over-regulation and insufficient elaboration of certain green laws. They believe that this is creating introduction problems. Given the current developments, it is impossible to ensure sustainable economic growth, while working to achieve climatic neutrality by 2050. According to experts, the EU will only be able to reach the announced emission indicators through boosting the green allocations by an order of magnitude to about €1 trillion per year. This will be superimposed on what they are spending on Ukraine. I mean their spending to destroy Ukraine rather than on its “reconstruction.” This is also an added guarantee that the trillions of euros will be used to support the part of Ukraine likely to remain under the Western influence. What additionally complicates the situation is the lack of equal “rules of the game” even within the European Union itself, primarily because of the difference in government support and price levels in individual EU member countries. Apart from other things, implementing EGD involves increasingly challenging socioeconomic costs for European populations.
In the coming years, the EU will prioritise efforts to reach a balance between making the EU economy greener and keeping it competitive. See where they have driven themselves? Brussels intends to do that not only by redistributing allocations but also by ensuring preferential access to energy, raw materials and labour outside of the EU, as well as by even a more active use of discriminatory protective measures in trade and restrictions on transferring advanced EU technologies to third countries. The EU was conceived as a union of countries that derived advantages from bilateral or multilateral formats, advantages that enabled them to eliminate red tape in their financial and economic sectors. I mean they signed trade agreements to make life simpler and cut costs. Over the past decades, this has degenerated into a monster that devours the West European economies and finances. The European economy is sinking under this weight and is unlikely to surface again.
At the same time, the EU is not going to renounce the effort to impose its bankrupt climatic approaches on the Global Majority. Though unable to cope themselves, they will continue to recommend them to others. What is the meaning of their egging developing countries into making the same mistakes as those committed by Brussels as it went about implementing the EGD? Does this make sense? The thing is that the green agenda has always been par excellence an EU political tool used to repartition the global economy on terms beneficial for the West. The EU leadership will use this tool as long as there is a chance to boost their economy at the expense of others, even if this means to foil the prospects for sustainable economic growth in developing countries.
Question: The President of Russia was inaugurated on May 7, marking Vladimir Putin’s fifth term in office. What are your expectations regarding China-Russia relations during Vladimir Putin’s new presidential tenure?
Maria Zakharova: In short, I have the most optimistic expectations.
To provide a more detailed answer, the diplomacy of leaders plays a central role in shaping the entire spectrum of Russia-China relations. Throughout Vladimir Putin’s presidency, these relations have achieved an unprecedentedly high level. Substantial progress has been made in practical cooperation, humanitarian exchanges are flourishing, and foreign policy coordination is being effectively carried out. Russia-China cooperation relies on broadly overlapping interests within an environment of mutual respect and equality. Notably, its quality surpasses the Cold War-era monolithic blocs, does not depend on global fluctuations, and is not directed against third countries.
Vladimir Putin’s landslide victory in the presidential election with a record-high result serves as a testament to the widespread support from Russian society for his policies, including their external dimension which includes the advancement of a comprehensive partnership with China as one of their foremost priorities. His re-election underscores the continuity of the steadfast commitment to enhancing strategic cooperation between Moscow and Beijing.
President Putin will soon make a state visit to China, marking his inaugural foreign trip following his re-election. A year earlier, the Chinese leader chose our country for his first foreign visit following his re-election as President of the People’s Republic of China. This serves as compelling evidence of the unique nature of the Russian-Chinese partnership and the significant personal investment from the leaders of both countries. Their close working relationship and strong personal bond are underscored by intensive working contacts and personal friendship.
Amidst the ongoing tectonic shifts in the international landscape and efforts by Western nations to impede the sustainable progress in our countries, Russia and China will undoubtedly remain steadfast allies who stand united against external challenges and threats. This solidarity will empower them to effectively address shared challenges in bilateral cooperation and global governance.
Question: “China supports the holding of an international peace conference at an appropriate time, which would be recognised by both Russia and Ukraine and ensure equal participation of all parties and fair discussion of all peace plans,” Chinese President Xi Jinping said recently during his European tour emphasising that China supports a balanced, effective and sustainable security architecture in Europe. What can you say about the Chinese President’s visit to Europe and China’s role in resolving the Ukraine crisis?
Maria Zakharova: I believe commenting on bilateral cooperation in which we are not directly involved is unnecessary.
Regarding China’s stance on the situation surrounding Ukraine, Beijing maintains a balanced position and demonstrates a clear understanding of the historical and geopolitical factors contributing to the conflict. This perspective is reflected in the 12-point document on the political and diplomatic resolution of the Ukraine crisis published by the Chinese Foreign Ministry on February 24, 2023.
We are grateful to the Chinese leadership and the Chinese people for their steadfast refusal to participate in what we consider to be dubious forums and conferences organised by the United States and its allies in Kiev. These gatherings, in our view, serve as a pretext for advancing ultimatums from the Kiev regime and the West designed to perpetuate the ongoing confrontation.
Once again, we stress the futility of international events that disregard Russia’s legitimate security concerns and current geopolitical realities. This stands as a crucial factor for China to consider its stance on various events. We have taken note of the proposal put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the organisation of a forum involving both Russia and Ukraine to discuss all peace initiatives.
Question: Recent days have been marked by a sharp escalation in tensions surrounding Ukraine: comments by officials from France, the United Kingdom and the United States about the potential deployment of troops or using British weapons against facilities on the Russian territory, on the one hand, and exercises to practice the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons and the promise of retaliatory strikes against British targets, on the other hand. What does Russia think could and should be done to promote de-escalation?
Maria Zakharova: Let’s see why we are hearing these statements coming from the West. The Kiev regime has reached a stalemate. Instead of seeking resolutions in the best interests of the Ukrainian people, the West is effectively tightening the noose around the neck of the Ukrainian people – now that Ukrainian statehood is long gone – as it turns Ukrainian citizens into cannon fodder. I’m talking about the Ukrainians residing in Western countries. These actions are being covered up by escalated rhetoric in order to hide them from Ukrainian society. Meanwhile, the situation on the front lines remains deadlocked. The pool of individuals utilised by the West to achieve their objective of inflicting a “strategic defeat” on Russia is drying up. I will not be surprised if soon, even children from kindergartens were to be mobilised and sent to the front lines.
Now, I understand why Ukraine expressed such concern regarding the fate of the dolphin bombers, which, according to their reports, became Russia’s property following Crimea’s reunification with Russia. I understand why they are prepared to use not just dolphins, but anything that moves for such purposes. Ukrainians appear to be simply fulfilling orders in exchange for Western funding, prompting an escalation in Western rhetoric.
The elections in the United States are another important point to consider, since they are the most important factor behind geopolitical instability. It is important to “cover up” the tranches and to demonstrate (there are no frontline successes to show) at least some semblance of public life. All these conferences, “peace formulas,” and Zelensky’s pseudo-formulas have failed. What is to be done? They score points off the rhetoric. The economic numbers in these very countries are appalling.
What’s needed to keep escalation going? The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrel said if they stop shipping weapons to the Kiev regime, everything will be over in two weeks. This is the true “peace formula” voiced by the Westerners themselves that offers a chance to de-escalate.
Question: What do you think about expanded illegitimate sanctions pressure on China, imposed by the United States and EU countries that are voicing a more active anti-China position, due to US-China disagreements, including sanctions in response to alleged Chinese support for the Russian defence industry?
Maria Zakharova: The United States and the West have been exerting sanctions pressure on China much longer, compared to Russia.
These not so glaring sanctions were declared long ago, and they are linked with China’s economic growth and its economic performance over the past few decades. They can be explained by the fact that the West is unable to compete with China and to achieve the same results, posted by China’s economy and research sector. This is another pretext for stopping China’s development by non-competitive methods. The West has stated that this is its goal.
Question: Why did ambassadors from even unfriendly countries decide to attend the inauguration of the President of Russia? They could have avoided doing this under various pretexts. In March 2024, Western diplomats slammed the pace of Russian presidential elections.
This past March, Western diplomats slammed the pace of Russian presidential elections. Ahead of the May 7 inauguration ceremony, Brussels advised Western diplomats not to attend it. Nevertheless, several ambassadors and diplomats, even including those from unfriendly countries, attended the ceremony. How can the Foreign Ministry comment on this?
Maria Zakharova: First, I will tell you honestly that we had invited everyone. We did not conceal this. We invited representatives of friendly and unfriendly countries. Second, I will also say absolutely honestly that we did not keep tabs on who showed up, and who did not come. Quite possibly, these statistics are available, but, to be honest, we did not monitor this situation.
This event took place in full conformity with implementing constitutional provisions. Notably, this is a holiday for the people of Russia who are celebrating the victory of their candidate. We see this as the most important thing. Considering the official status of this event, we provided everyone with an opportunity to participate in it because this is part of the official procedure. One can probably inquire somewhere as to who showed up, and who did not. However, we did not pay attention to this yesterday.
Here is an important aspect. I believe that countries and nations whose ambassadors have failed to show up should inquire what are they doing if they are not exercising their basic function, that is, to attend official ceremonies, to expand contacts and to interact? They are no longer allowed to engage in subversive activities here. Certainly, they are unable to do this on a scale to which they are accustomed. Their plans for changing the official line have failed long ago. To be honest, it is downright funny to talk about regime change, even in the context of their endless scheming that aims to stir up trouble somewhere and to create non-competitive advantages for themselves.
It is not an important task to count and watch where these people are going. However, everyone wants to know what they are doing here.
I would also like to ask countries that have told their ambassadors not to attend the ceremony. As you understand, the ambassadors are guided by certain considerations. Perhaps, they follow a certain instruction issued by NATO headquarters in Brussels; or, maybe, the US Embassy notifies them. It is hard to understand. Yesterday, they told the ambassadors of these countries not to attend the inauguration ceremony and they complied. When these ambassadors are rotated, their successors will have to obtain and present certain documents. Who provides them with these documents and legal grounds for exercising their ambassadorial powers? The head of our state is doing this. What are they going to do? Will they also decline to visit the Kremlin? What else will they do? Or, maybe, they will invent new ceremonials? I do not know.
No one has abolished or rewritten the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Moreover, the international community is unlikely to invent something better in present-day conditions. How are they planning to rotate their officials in the future? Their journalists, their civil society and their government should ask these questions. What are they counting on?
Question: I have a question regarding an article published by The Washington Post which says that India is part of an expanding roster of countries employing tactics previously associated with China, Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and other repressive regimes. It is a trend fuelled by factors ranging from surging strains of nationalism and authoritarianism to the spread of social media and spyware that both empower and endanger dissident groups.
How does Russia see the allegations against Indian officials [being involved] in a foiled assassination plot on foreign soil? Recently, an American news outlet, The Washington Post, claimed that India is trying to do what Russia is trying to do against its enemies.
Maria Zakharova: It seems to me that The Washington Post should apply the term “repressive regime” and all the quotes you mentioned to Washington. It is hard to imagine a regime more repressive than Washington, both domestically and internationally. Now, onto your question directly.
Based on the information available to us, Washington has yet to furnish any credible evidence implicating Indian citizens in the alleged plot to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Engaging in speculation without evidence is unacceptable.
The recurrent baseless accusations by the US against New Delhi (we observe their unfounded accusations not only towards India but also many other nations) regarding religious freedom violations reflect a lack of understanding of the national mentality, the historical trajectory of India’s development, and a disregard for India as a state. I believe this also stems from a neocolonial mindset, reminiscent of the colonial era, the era of slave trade, and imperialism.
This I not exclusive to India. The motive behind this is to destabilise the domestic political landscape of India, aiming to disrupt the ongoing general parliamentary elections in the country. Undoubtedly, this constitutes interference in India’s domestic affairs.
Question: The Indian External Affairs Ministry spokesperson said that trying to influence the general elections happening in India. As we now, Russian leaders are in India to see how India is conducting elections. Is America really trying to influence this election?
Maria Zakharova: Certainly. I believe this reflects the US’s intent to disrupt the ongoing general parliamentary elections in India, constituting a part of their campaign to interfere in India’s domestic affairs.
Question: The proposal to cease fire in the Gaza Strip that HAMAS has agreed to, provides for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the enclave and the complete lifting of the blockade. How do you assess the prospects for a settlement in Gaza, as well as chances that Israel agrees to implement UN Security Council resolutions on territorial demarcation with the Palestinians and Syria?
Maria Zakharova: I have provided a detailed answer in my opening remarks. Right now, I have nothing to add, but I will check with our experts.
Question: The date of the meeting between foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia Jeyhun Bayramov and Ararat Mirzoyan in Almaty has been announced. What does the Russian Foreign Ministry expect from this meeting?
Maria Zakharova: We welcome the meeting between the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia scheduled for May 10 in Almaty. For our part, we are also ready to continue assisting in promoting the Armenian-Azerbaijani normalisation process.
On April 22, President of Russia Vladimir Putin held talks with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in Moscow, and today the Russian leader will meet with Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan. These meetings’ agenda includes such matters as ensuring peace, stability and security in South Caucasus.
Question: I would like to congratulate you and everyone present on the upcoming holiday of May 9. Of course, it’s a holiday for us too, in the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Maria Zakharova: As far as I remember, it was from Baku that I once received a handmade brooch with the Russian flag. We began to support this tradition. The wife of a Department of Information and Press employee made this brooch with her own hands (perhaps even at night). This is the St George Ribbon, a symbol of Victory. We embrace the best traditions, including in handicrafts. This is an act of humanitarian cooperation and truly sincere gratitude to our predecessors, grandfathers, and great-grandfathers for their contribution to the Great Victory.
I would like to take this opportunity to convey my best wishes to all veterans who were part of it in one way or another and will celebrate this great day tomorrow in Azerbaijan, Armenia, and throughout the post-Soviet space.
I would like to congratulate everyone, without singling out any particular country.
Thank you very much for reminding me about this.
***
Congratulations to all on the upcoming Victory Day, May 9. I wish everyone prosperity.
I would like to wish you to celebrate tomorrow’s holiday with all your heart, remember your ancestors and the entire family, who took part in those events: some at the front, some in the rear, some as children of these first post-war years. They also suffered a lot.
Sing and listen to Victory songs, watch the Parade on Red Square, take part in the Immortal Regiment events (in person or online), or other events.
The main thing is to carry this holiday, which comes tomorrow, through the entire next year. It will be an anniversary. We must prepare for it and go together all 365 days, like the warriors who brought us Victory 79 years ago did for the last year. They did not know if this would be the last year or for whom it would be the last, but they did it.
Tomorrow we are launching the historical marathon of memory that must lead us all to what I believe is a truly common point: the 80th anniversary of Victory.
Happy holiday!