The Kremlin is using the date of the end of World War II for propaganda purposes and to justify its war against Ukraine. Therefore, all EU leaders, including Slovakia, agreed in 2022 to refrain from visiting Moscow during the May 9 events. This was highlighted by European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper, commenting on criticism from Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico directed at EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, who recommended that leaders of EU candidate countries avoid participating in the "celebrations" in Moscow on May 9.
"Russia uses the commemoration of the end of World War II to justify its own aggressive war against Ukraine... From our side, it is important not to legitimize this by participating in events such as this parade. And we also have the decision of the EU Council from member countries, including Slovakia. They agreed in 2022 to decline such invitations," said Hipper.
Another European Commission spokesperson, Guillaume Mercier, commenting on Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić’s intention to visit Moscow on May 9, emphasized that the European side expects Serbia to comply with decisions within the EU's Common Foreign Policy.
"I can't say what the reaction to this visit might be. What I can say is that Serbia is negotiating its EU membership, and that entails aligning with (decisions) on foreign policy. So, the EU wants Serbia to be a reliable partner that shares common principles, values, security, and well-being. We expect Serbia to ensure adherence to these strategic positions," said Mercier.
Following the EU Foreign Ministers' Council on April 14, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, warned the political leadership of candidate countries to refrain from participating in the parade or any other celebratory events in Moscow on May 9.
