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Russian foreign minister said that Moscow's military operations in Ukraine will not be over by the forthcoming anniversary of the country’s liberation after World War II on May 9.
Sergey Lavrov told Italian news site Mediaset that Moscow will not rush to wind off its so-called "special military operation" in time for the anniversary, which commemorates Nazi Germany's surrender to allied troops in 1945.
“Our military will not artificially adjust their actions to any date, including Victory Day,” Lavrov said in the interview.
"We'll solemnly commemorate our victory but the timing and speed of what is happening in Ukraine will hinge on the need to minimize risks for civilians and Russian soldiers," the Russian minister said.
Western governments had expected Russian President Vladimir Putin to proclaim victory in Ukraine for the May 9 celebrations, which include Russia's annual massive military parade.
Russia's invasion, which began on February 24, has resulted in the deaths of thousands of people and the displacement of millions.
Over a thousand Russian soldiers have been killed in the operation, according to Moscow. Ukraine argues that Russia has suffered a far greater loss.
Picture Credits: Reuters
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