Moscow marked Victory Day with a military parade in Red Square, during a ceremony held under tight security measures and attended by the Russian leadership and several foreign leaders.
During his speech, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed confidence in Russia’s victory in Ukraine, referring to Russian troops engaged in the ongoing conflict.
He stated that Russian forces are confronting an aggressive force “armed and supported by the entire NATO bloc.”
“Victory has always been and will always be ours,” Putin said, emphasizing what he described as the moral strength, courage, and unity of the Russian army.
This year’s parade was held as part of Victory Day celebrations, commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, which is considered Russia’s most important secular holiday.
Russian authorities implemented heightened security measures, while a temporary three-day ceasefire with Ukraine, reportedly mediated by the United States, was seen as an effort to reduce the risk of incidents during the ceremony.
Unlike previous years, this year’s parade took place without the display of tanks and heavy weaponry, apart from a ceremonial flyover by fighter jets.
Russian officials stated that the change in format was linked to the “current operational situation” and potential security threats.
