Defence Minister Rajnath Singh could visit Moscow next week as Delhi seeks to widen strategic ties

New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh could visit Moscow next week for the 75th World War II Victory Day parade on June 24. The visit if fructified will be taking place in the backdrop of stand-off with China along LAC.

Singh could meet his Russian counterpart and leaders of other countries, it has been learnt. Singh will, however, skip meeting China’s leaders who will also be at the parade.

Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar and top officials of the armed forces could also be accompanying the Minister.


Russia had expressed solidarity from the highest level following the June 15 incident. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has pushed a proposal to the government for acquiring 33 new fighter aircraft, including 21 MiG-29s and 12 Su-30MKIs from Russia.

India had sent a contingent of 75 personnel from its three armed forces to participate in Russia's 75th World War II Victory Day parade.

"On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Second World War, there will be a military parade in Moscow to honour the heroism and sacrifices made by the Russian and other friendly people," the government had said in its press release.

"The participation in the parade will be a mark of tribute and solidarity with the people of Russia at a time when they remember their heroes of the Great Patriotic War," it added.