Russia to host leaders of China, Brazil for 80th anniversary of its World War II victory

Moscow hosts world leaders for Victory Day, showcasing alliances and power projection amid tensions with the West.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin is set to host the leaders of China, Brazil and other heads of states for festivities on Friday (May 9, 2025) marking the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

Victory Day, which is celebrated in Russia on May 9, has become the country's most important secular holiday.

A massive parade through Red Square and other ceremonies underline Moscow's efforts to project its power and cement the alliances it has forged while seeking a counterbalance to the West amid the three-year-old war in Ukraine.

“For Mr. Putin, this day is important as a demonstration how broad a coalition backing Russia is,” political analyst Nikolai Petrov said.

The lineup of leaders coming to Moscow contrasts sharply to some past celebrations that drew top Western leaders at a time of friendlier ties between Russia and the West.

Mr. Putin described Chinese President Xi Jinping as “our main guest” at the Victory Day festivities when he discussed preparations for his visit with China's Foreign Minister. The Russian leader noted that he and Mr. Xi are to discuss both bilateral and global issues at their summit in Moscow.

Mr. Xi is coming for a four-day visit, and Mr. Putin's foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov said they would discuss trade and Russia's supply of oil and gas to China, as well as cooperation within BRICS — the bloc of developing economies that initially included Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa but has since expanded to more countries.