Rajnath Singh likely to skip Russia's victory day parade amid India-Pakistan tensions: Sources

In a significant diplomatic development, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is likely to skip Russia's Victory Day parade, scheduled for May 9, 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Official sources revealed that Singh's Deputy, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, will represent India at the event in Moscow.

The decision comes amidst rising tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent



terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. While no official reason has been cited for Singh's absence, sources within the Ministry of Defence suggested that the security situation arising from the Pahalgam attack played a significant role in the decision.

"Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has opted out of the Victory Day celebrations, and Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth will attend the event on behalf of the Indian government," a senior official said.