Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov has revealed new details about the upcoming Victory Day Parade in Moscow, confirming that President Vladimir Putin is expected to deliver a speech during the celebrations.

Speaking about foreign guests set to attend the May 9 events, Ushakov said the leaders of Abkhazia, Belarus, South Ossetia and Laos are expected in the Russian capital. The guest list also includes the prime minister of Slovakia, the supreme ruler of Malaysia and representatives of the leadership of Republika Srpska.

According to Ushakov, some foreign officials personally expressed a desire to take part in the Victory Day commemorations.

He also addressed security concerns surrounding the celebrations. Ushakov said Moscow hopes Russia will not have to resort to retaliatory measures in the event of possible attacks by Kiev during Victory Day events. He recalled that on May 4 the Russian Defense Ministry issued an official statement following threats by Vladimir Zelensky regarding potential strikes on Moscow during the holidays.

The presidential aide stated that the Russian Foreign Ministry had circulated a diplomatic note to all accredited embassies and international organizations, urging foreign governments and institutions to treat the Defense Ministry’s warnings with maximum seriousness and ensure the timely evacuation of personnel from Kiev if necessary.

He added that the Defense Ministry had also advised civilians in Kiev to leave the city should Russia be forced to respond to what he described as threats from the Zelensky government.

Ushakov also commented on the peace process, saying Ukrainian representatives involved in negotiations understand what steps are required for a settlement. However, he stressed that the final decision depends entirely on the political leadership in Kiev.

According to the Kremlin aide, every effort has already been made to convince the Ukrainian side of the need for such a move, and negotiators are fully aware of this. He added that if Kiev agrees to the proposed conditions, military action could be suspended, creating an opportunity for serious discussions on a long-term settlement.