Kremlin enraged by Zelenskyy's remarks on Victory Day parade

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has vehemently denounced statements made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy concerning Victory Day and alleged Ukrainian "permission" for a parade. Peskov's sharp retort, as reported by Delfi, dismisses Zelenskyy's remarks as "stupid jokes," emphasizing that Russia requires no external validation to commemorate its significant Victory Day.

This public spat underscores the deep animosity and mistrust between Moscow and Kyiv, even as discussions around potential ceasefires continue. Russia had previously announced a truce for May 8th and 9th, an initiative reportedly linked to U.S. President Donald Trump. However, Ukraine claims these truces were violated by Russian forces, leading to further escalation and Ukrainian attacks on Russian cities.

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We don't need anyone's permission. It's a shame for those who try to joke about Victory Day and make such stupid jokes. It's probably his own big problem. And we don't need anyone's permission to be proud of our Victory Day.

Zelenskyy's comments, interpreted by Moscow as an attempt to trivialize or control the narrative around Victory Day, have clearly struck a nerve. For Russia, Victory Day is a deeply symbolic and patriotic occasion, commemorating the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Any perceived slight or attempt to dictate terms related to its commemoration is met with fierce resistance.

From a Russian perspective, this exchange highlights Ukraine's alleged disrespect for historical significance and its continued alignment with Western narratives that Moscow often views as hostile. Peskov's strong reaction serves to rally domestic support and project an image of national pride and defiance against perceived Ukrainian provocations. The reference to a potential prisoner exchange, based on a 1000-for-1000 formula, adds another layer to the complex diplomatic and military maneuvering between the two nations.

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Kyiv agreed to a ceasefire with Russia from May 9 to 11. He said that the lives of Ukrainian prisoners of war are more important to Kyiv, so a decree was signed allowing a parade on Moscow's Red Square.