KABUL: Russia marked the 81st anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany in World War II with a military ceremony held in Moscow’s Red Square.
According to Agence France-Presse, the event on Saturday was held under tight security measures and, unlike previous years, did not include a large parade of heavy military equipment such as Russian tanks and missiles.
During his speech, Vladimir Putin said Russia’s victory over Nazi Germany continues to inspire the current generation of Russian soldiers carrying out what Moscow calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine.
Putin said Russian forces are confronting “an aggressive force armed and supported by the entire NATO alliance,” but added that Russian troops continue to advance.
The Kremlin leader also stressed that he “deeply believes” Russia’s objectives in Ukraine are just.
Victory Day celebrations, which have become one of the most prominent annual state events during Putin’s more than two decades in power, appeared more subdued this year, with fewer allied leaders attending. Representatives from Belarus, Malaysia, Laos, and Slovakia were among those present.
The ceremony took place as a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, announced by Donald Trump on Friday, remained in effect.