Context:

Chinese President Xi Jinping joined Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow for the annual Victory Day parade, which commemorated the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany. The parade showcased over 11,500 troops and 180 military vehicles, including those used in Ukraine, highlighting Russia's military strength. Despite a declared ceasefire, Ukrainian regions reported Russian strikes, killing two and causing damage. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed willingness for a 30-day ceasefire and awaited Russia's response, while President Trump showed support for ending the conflict. The event was attended by several world leaders, and included troops from China, North Korea, Vietnam, and Mongolia, with Putin expressing gratitude for their support in Ukraine.

Dive Deeper:

• The Victory Day parade in Moscow featured a display of military strength with over 11,500 troops and 180 military vehicles, marking Russia's 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

• Chinese President Xi Jinping stood alongside Vladimir Putin during the parade, signaling a strong alliance between Russia and China against perceived international pressures.

• Despite Putin's announcement of a ceasefire, Ukrainian authorities reported continued Russian strikes in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, resulting in casualties and infrastructure damage.

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy communicated with President Donald Trump, who supported the initiative for a ceasefire and expressed readiness to assist in ending the conflict.

• Zelenskyy proposed a 30-day ceasefire starting immediately and called for Russia to demonstrate its commitment to peace by agreeing to an unconditional ceasefire.

• The parade was attended by leaders from Venezuela, Brazil, Serbia, and Slovakia, with military contingents from China, North Korea, Vietnam, and Mongolia participating, showcasing international support for Russia.

• Putin expressed gratitude to North Korea for their participation alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, acknowledging their sacrifices in the conflict.