Just hours before Chinese President Xi Jinping was supposed to arrive in the Russian capital, Reuters reported on Wednesday that Ukrainian drone assaults affected operations at multiple airports in Moscow overnight, prompting closures.
Between late Tuesday evening and early Wednesday morning, Russian air defense systems intercepted and destroyed at least 14 drones, according to Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.
Ahead of Russia’s yearly Victory Day celebrations, security worries were raised by the strikes, which were the third day in a row that Moscow had been the target of aerial attacks.
Major airports suspended flight operations for a large portion of the night. In order to handle the interruption, national airline Aeroflot stated that schedule changes were being implemented.This week, 29 international leaders are anticipated in Moscow to commemorate the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in international War II, including President Xi.
Military units from 13 countries, including China, are set to participate in a parade on May 9, a date revered in Russia as a symbol of national pride and sacrifice.
Xi’s four-day state visit is anticipated to further solidify the strategic partnership between China and Russia, with several agreements expected to be signed.
The Chinese president’s presence offers a diplomatic boost for Russian President Vladimir Putin amid continued tensions with Western nations.
The Soviet Union, which lost an estimated 27 million people during World War II, played a crucial role in the defeat of Nazi Germany.
Putin has repeatedly emphasised the importance of preserving this legacy in the face of what he describes as Western attempts to diminish Russia’s historical contribution.
About The Author
