![Russian service members march in columns on the day of a rehearsal for a military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two, in central Moscow, Russia, May 3, 2025. [REUTERS]](https://www.koreadailyus.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/0506-Russia.jpg)
North Korea Victory Day representation will be limited to an ambassador-level official, the Kremlin confirmed on May 5, dismissing speculation about leader Kim Jong-un’s possible attendance.
According to TASS, Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters that a North Korean ambassador would attend Russia’s 80th Victory Day celebrations on May 9 in Moscow. This marks a shift from earlier speculation that Kim or Choe Ryong-hae, the Standing Committee Chair of the Supreme People’s Assembly, might appear in person.
Ambassador Sin Hong-chol, North Korea’s top envoy in Russia, is expected to represent Pyongyang at the military parade in Red Square.
No Military Contingent from Pyongyang
Despite growing military ties between Pyongyang and Moscow—including last month’s announcement that North Korean troops would be deployed to Kursk—North Korea is not among the 13 countries participating in the parade with military units, according to the Kremlin. Countries sending troops include China, Vietnam, and Myanmar.
Ushakov also revealed that heads of state from 29 nations, including Brazil, are set to attend, alongside foreign ministers and defense officials from over 30 countries. Delegations from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and leaders of Russia-backed regions such as South Ossetia and Abkhazia will also be present. The United States and Israel have received invitations, but it remains unclear whether U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy will attend.
Russia Prepares for High-Profile Diplomacy
This year’s Victory Day carries heightened significance as Russia’s war in Ukraine enters its fourth year. The Kremlin has prepared an elaborate event, which includes more than 15 bilateral meetings for President Vladimir Putin, according to Ushakov.
A key moment will be Putin’s summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping on May 8. Xi will be in Russia for a state visit from May 7 to 10. The two leaders are expected to discuss energy cooperation, including the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, and issue a joint statement following official talks and a press conference.
Ushakov noted that this will be their third interaction this year, following a January video summit and a February phone call. Putin is also scheduled to visit China between late August and early September.
Broad Global Presence, Strategic Messaging
Victory Day events will serve as a platform for Russia to assert its international ties, particularly within BRICS and among African and Central Asian nations. Leaders such as Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić are expected to meet Putin on May 9, despite criticism from the European Union.
Ushakov also hinted at a potential “interesting meeting” involving North Korea, though he did not offer further details.
BY MOOYOUNG LEE [lee.mooyoung@koreadaily.com]
