MoS Defence Sanjay Seth Joins Russia’s 80th Victory Day Celebrations, Reinforcing Strategic Ties

May 8, 2025: Union Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, arrived in Moscow on Thursday to participate in the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, commemorating the Soviet Union’s historic triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II. He was welcomed by India’s Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, and Major General Oleg Molessev from the Russian Ministry of Defence.

During his visit, Seth will attend the grand Victory Day Parade on May 9, engage in bilateral talks with Russian Deputy Minister of Defence Alexander Fomin, and interact with members of the Indian community in Moscow. The visit is part of ongoing efforts to bolster the “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership” between India and Russia.

In a post shared on X, the Indian Embassy in Moscow highlighted the significance of the visit:
“Hon’ble Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri @SethSanjayMP was received by Ambassador @vkumar1969 and Major General Oleg Molessev of the Defence Ministry of the Russian Federation on arrival at Moscow on 8 May 2025. He will attend the Victory Day parade on 9 May, have a bilateral meeting with Russian Deputy Minister of Defence Alexander Fomin, and participate in other events commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory Day.”
The Embassy further added, “He will also interact with members of the Indian community in Moscow.”

Victory Day is a key national celebration in Russia, marked by a military parade in Moscow’s Red Square to honor the nation’s role in defeating Nazi Germany.

In a parallel development, U.S. President Donald Trump officially designated May 8 as Victory Day in the United States to mark the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory in World War II.
“I have just signed a proclamation officially designating tomorrow, May 8, as Victory Day for World War 2, commemorating the 80th anniversary of America’s victory in the Second World War. All over the globe, our World War II allies are celebrating this week,” he announced.

Sanjay Seth’s participation in Moscow’s Victory Day events underscores India’s enduring diplomatic and defence cooperation with Russia, reaffirming shared historical bonds and strategic alignment.