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Zelenskyy: Ukraine Cannot Ensure Safety of Foreign Delegations Visiting Russia on May 9
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![Ivan_khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine cannot guarantee the safety of foreign representatives planning to attend the May 9 Victory Day parade in Moscow, stressing that responsibility for security in Russia lies solely with the Russian authorities.
According to Interfax-Ukraine, Zelenskyy told journalists on May 3 that Ukraine has warned other governments not to expect any security assurances from Kyiv regarding visits to Russian territory.
“We cannot be held responsible for what happens in the Russian Federation. They provide your security, and we will not offer any guarantees,” Zelenskyy said.
“We do not know what Russia will do during these dates. They may carry out actions such as arson or explosions and then attempt to blame Ukraine.”
The president noted that some countries have contacted Kyiv in recent days regarding the safety of their delegations traveling to Moscow for the May 9 event. Ukraine’s official position, he said, is to advise against such visits from a security standpoint. “If you decide to go, it is your personal choice. Do not ask us for guarantees,” he added.
Zelenskyy also addressed reports that Russia had proposed a temporary ceasefire to facilitate a peaceful environment for the May 9 parade in Moscow.
He rejected the proposal, calling it an unserious attempt to ease Russia’s international isolation and allow President Vladimir Putin to host foreign guests. “No one will help Putin by creating a comfortable or safe environment for his parade,” Zelenskyy said.
The Ukrainian leader added that Ukraine continues to engage diplomatically with countries that maintain neutral or historically close ties with Russia.
However, he emphasized that Kyiv does not bear responsibility for events occurring within Russian borders. “Our responsibility lies here, in Ukraine. We are not accountable for what happens in Russia,” he concluded.
Earlier, Kazakh authorities banned the Soviet-style “Immortal Regiment” marches traditionally held on Victory Day, citing a lack of available venues and security concerns. The event, closely associated with Russian patriotic narratives, has been replaced by local commemorations such as “Salute to Heroes.” Authorities warned that unauthorized gatherings would face penalties, reflecting Kazakhstan’s broader efforts to distance itself from Russia’s wartime propaganda.
