The rupture comes after months of disagreement between the two countries over Israel’s conduct of the war.

Russians celebrate Victory Day, which marks the 79th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two.

Some observers say this is the most politically charged edition of the song contest in its 68-year history. Contestant Eden Golan is representing Israel.

Vladimir Putin delivered a bellicose speech on Red Square at a commemoration of the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II, signaling his confidence about Russia’s battlefield advances in Ukraine.

In his first threat to withhold U.S. military aid, President Biden also acknowledged that American bombs used by Israel had killed civilians in the Gaza Strip.

After months of warnings of a looming Israeli offensive in overcrowded Rafah, the ground operation appears to be underway.