On May 9, Moscow will mark the 70th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany with around 26 foreign leaders attending the celebration. Angela Merkel will not be in Moscow for the parade but is set to visit Russia the following day to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. "To date, there is huge controversy between Russia and us [Germany], including the issue of what is happening in Ukraine. However, it is important to me to jointly lay wreaths on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on May 10 with Russian President," Merkel said in a video blog. Speaking at an award ceremony for Russia's Heroes of Labor May 1, President Vladimir Putin stressed that Russia has demonstrated its ability to face the most complex of economic challenges. Merkel added she wanted to pay tribute to the millions of victims of World War II who had been on the conscience of Germany. In March, Angela Merkel, as well as some other European leaders, rejected an invitation to participate in Victory Day celebrations in Moscow. The move reflects tensions between Russia and the West over Ukrainian crisis. Source URL |
