Putin criticises Nato, defends Ukraine war at subdued Victory Day parade

Russian President Vladimir Putin used his Victory Day address in Moscow's Red Square to defend the war in Ukraine and criticise Nato, as the annual parade took place on a reduced scale this year.

Addressing military personnel and a limited number of foreign leaders, Putin described the conflict in Ukraine as a "just" war and accused Nato of backing Kyiv.

"They are confronting an aggressive force armed and supported by the whole bloc of Nato. And despite this, our heroes move forward," he said, referring to Russian troops involved in what Moscow calls its "special military operation."

The ceremony marked Russia's most important national holiday, commemorating the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. However, celebrations were more subdued compared to previous years.

For the first time in recent years, the parade did not feature armoured vehicles or ballistic missiles, though large numbers of troops marched across Red Square under heightened security.

Putin began his speech by honouring the sacrifices of Soviet soldiers during World War II, saying their legacy continues to inspire Russian forces today.

"The great feat of the generation of victors inspires the soldiers carrying out the goals of the special military operation today," he said.

He also praised the contributions of ordinary citizens, including scientists, doctors, teachers and workers, to the country's war effort.

Ahead of the event, Russia and Ukraine agreed to observe a three-day ceasefire, announced by US President Donald Trump.

Among the leaders present at the parade were Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Fewer international leaders attended compared to last year's event.

Following the ceremony, Putin laid flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and later hosted a reception at the Kremlin.

Victory Day events were also held earlier in Russia's eastern regions, including Vladivostok, where people took part in the traditional "Immortal Regiment" march to honour war veterans.

Source: BBC