Kyiv:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concerns over the invitation extended by Russia to foreign officials for the Red Square Parade on May 9.

“We cannot be held responsible for what happens within the territory of Russia. While they offer security, we cannot provide any guarantees,” Zelensky reportedly said, as quoted by the RBC News Portal.

Kiev criticized the proposed 30-day ceasefire coinciding with the 80th anniversary of Victory Day over Nazi Germany, describing it as merely a “theatrical production,” according to Zelensky’s remarks to reporters.

“An unconditional ceasefire is a model proposed by the Americans. We adhere to that. Starting from this date, and as early as possible. Indeed, let’s see how a 30-day ceasefire works,” he added.

On May 9, Russia commemorates the 80th anniversary of its victory in World War II, highlighted by the Red Square Parade in Moscow.

Leaders from more than 20 countries, including China’s President Xi Jinping, Belarus’s Alexander Lukashenko, Serbia, and Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro, have been invited, along with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Initially, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi intended to send Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, though some younger ministers might attend due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan.

Reports indicate that Serbian President Vucic and Slovak Prime Minister Fico opted to boycott the Kremlin’s invitation, claiming sudden illness rather than making the trip to Moscow.

In the meantime, Dmitry Medvedev, deputy head of the Russian National Security Council, asserted on his Telegram blog that Zelensky’s guarantees wouldn’t be sought. “If his provocation becomes a reality, no one can ensure a calm dawn in Kiev on May 10,” he stated.

From Russia’s perspective, the Ukrainian conflict has been framed since its inception as a war led by the US and NATO, but experts suggest it has evolved into a conflict centered around resources after Kiev’s dealings with Washington.