Putin Defends Ukraine War in Victory Day Speech
Russian President Vladimir Putin used his annual Victory Day speech in Moscow’s Red Square to defend Russia’s war in Ukraine and attack NATO.
Speaking before hundreds of soldiers, Putin described the conflict as a “just war” and accused Ukraine of being an “aggressive force” armed and supported by NATO. He linked the sacrifices of Soviet soldiers in World War Two to Russia’s current military campaign, saying today’s troops are “heroes moving forward despite the odds.”
Victory Day, Russia’s biggest national holiday, commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany. This year’s celebrations were muted, with no tanks or missiles on display. Security was tight as military personnel marched across Red Square.
Ahead of the parade, Russia and Ukraine agreed to a three day ceasefire announced by US President Donald Trump. But Russia’s defence ministry later accused Ukraine of breaking the truce, though no details were given. Ukraine has not commented.
Putin also praised Russian citizens, including scientists, doctors, teachers, and war correspondents, for their contributions to the war effort. He said the country’s future depends on its people, regardless of changing military tactics.
After his speech, cannons fired rounds and a military brass band played. Putin then laid flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier before attending a Kremlin reception.
Foreign guests included Belarus’s Alexander Lukashenko, Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim, and Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was the only EU leader present. Attendance was far lower than last year’s 80th anniversary parade, which drew 27 world leaders including China’s Xi Jinping and Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
Russian TV later broadcast footage of soldiers on the front lines. Victory Day events were also held in other cities such as Vladivostok, Krasnoyarsk, and St Petersburg. In Vladivostok, a parade and Immortal Regiment march honoured war veterans. State media reported similar marches elsewhere, though some parades were cancelled or moved online due to security concerns.
Putin began his speech by commemorating Soviet soldiers of World War Two, saying their “great feat” inspires today’s military. He insisted Russia is confronting an aggressive force backed by NATO, but that its soldiers continue to advance.
The Russian leader also highlighted the role of ordinary citizens in supporting the war effort, noting contributions from inventors, medical staff, and teachers. “No matter how military tactics change, the future of the country is being provided for by the people,” he said.
Markedly fewer world leaders attended this year compared to last year’s large gathering. The reduced turnout reflects Russia’s growing isolation on the global stage.
Under Putin, Victory Day has increasingly been used as a propaganda tool to showcase Russia’s military strength. But this year’s scaled down celebrations, combined with the ongoing war in Ukraine, gave the event a more subdued tone.
