9 May: Russia and other former Soviet Republics are today celebrating Victory Day to mark the victory over fascism in the Great Patriotic War. A traditional military parade will be held in Kremlin Square with events in all other major towns and cities. (a

Borrell underlined that the European Union will make every effort to support the peace process and to remain a committed partner to the Afghan people. "Of course, we will have to take into account the evolving situation, but disengagement is not an option.  We are clear on that: there is no alternative to a negotiated political settlement, through inclusive peace talks.