Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva have arrived in Russia to participate in the significant 80th anniversary of Victory Day, a commemoration marking the end of World War II. This occasion, however, is overshadowed by the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as both nations exchanged fire just hours before the celebrations commenced.

Victory Day is a major event in Russia, honoring the Soviet Union's triumph over Nazi Germany in 1945. The presence of leaders like Xi and Lula highlights the geopolitical dynamics at play, especially given the current global tensions. As these leaders gather in Moscow, Russian forces have launched serious assaults on Ukraine, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reporting ballistic strikes and over 140 drone attacks hitting various targets across Ukraine overnight.

Throughout the day, air raid sirens blared incessantly across the capital, Kyiv, and other major cities, as reports emerged of casualties from the assaults. Zelensky detailed the grim situation, indicating that rescue operations were ongoing in cities like Kharkiv and Sumy, where significant damage was inflicted. He stated, “It is entirely fair that the Russian sky—the sky of the aggressor—is not calm either today.” This statement underscores the turbulence both nations are experiencing as the war rages on.

Despite the ongoing violence, Zelensky reiterated Ukraine's proposal for a ceasefire lasting a minimum of 30 days, asserting it as a legitimate opportunity for diplomatic negotiations. However, he criticized Russia for failing to respond positively to this proposal, instead continuing its attacks, which he claims illustrates the true nature of the conflict and who is responsible for the war.

Simultaneously, reports indicate that Ukraine has also launched its own attacks against Russian positions. Moscow's Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed that Russian air defenses successfully intercepted nine drones that were headed towards the Russian capital. This counterattack occurred just a day before a previously proposed three-day ceasefire by Russia was set to take effect. While Zelensky has not committed to this truce, he remains firm in offering his own ceasefire plan, signaling a complex and strained negotiation environment.

During this pivotal visit, President Xi is expected to engage in bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on a variety of topics, notably the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the broader relationship between Russia and the United States. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov highlighted these discussions as crucial amidst rising international scrutiny.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also invited to partake in the Victory Day parade but declined the invitation, citing increasing tensions with neighboring Pakistan. This decision underscores the intricate web of international relations currently unfolding, where geopolitical allegiances and conflicts continue to shape global dynamics.