PM Modi cancels Russia visit amid Indo-Pak tensions, skips Victory Day parade

In the wake of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India is preparing for decisive military action against cross-border terrorism. The attack, which targeted Indian security forces, has triggered a strong wave of outrage across the nation. Amid this tense backdrop, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cancelled his scheduled visit to Moscow for Russia's Victory Day parade on May 9.

The development was confirmed by Russian President Vladimir Putin’s spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, who said India had informed Moscow in advance. While the official reason remains unspecified, diplomatic experts believe the cancellation reflects a significant shift in India's focus toward internal security and anti-terror operations.

PM Modi’s decision comes at a time when New Delhi is intensifying its security strategy. A series of high-level meetings involving intelligence agencies, military leadership, and the Home Ministry has already taken place, indicating serious planning for retaliatory measures. Defence forces have reportedly been put on high alert, especially along the border regions.

India’s message is clear: there will be no tolerance for terror emanating from across the border. The government is believed to be evaluating a range of military and strategic options to respond to Pakistan-backed terror networks, especially in light of recurring attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.

Strategically, skipping the Victory Day parade — a major diplomatic event attended by several world leaders — signals India's unwillingness to allow foreign engagements to overshadow urgent national priorities. It also highlights the seriousness with which the Modi government is treating the security situation following the Pahalgam tragedy.

As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan, global attention is now turning toward India's next move. Defence analysts suggest that any Indian response may not just be symbolic but part of a broader counter-terror strategy that seeks to deter future threats decisively.