Russian President Vladimir Putin used his annual Victory Day address in Moscow’s Red Square to defend the war in Ukraine and sharply criticised NATO, as Russia marked the occasion with a reduced military display amid heightened security concerns.
Speaking before assembled troops, Putin described Russia’s campaign in Ukraine as a “just” struggle, accusing Ukraine of acting as an “aggressive force” backed by the full strength of NATO.
His remarks came during Russia’s most significant national holiday, commemorating the Soviet Union’s defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.
This year’s parade was noticeably scaled back, with no tanks or missile systems on display for the first time in years.
Officials cited operational demands linked to the ongoing war and security threats, including the risk of Ukrainian drone attacks, as reasons for the restrictions.
Despite the changes, hundreds of Russian troops still marched across Red Square under tight security.
Putin opened his speech by honouring Soviet wartime sacrifices before linking that legacy to Russia’s current military operations in Ukraine, now in their fourth year.
He claimed Russian forces were confronting a NATO-backed adversary but insisted they were continuing to advance on the battlefield.
“No matter how military tactics change, the future of the country is being provided for by the people,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by a limited number of foreign leaders, including Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, the only EU leader present.
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Their attendance contrasted with previous years, which featured a wider range of international guests.
Following the parade, Putin laid flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier before hosting a Kremlin reception.
Meanwhile, Russia reported alleged ceasefire violations by Ukraine, though Kyiv did not immediately respond.
Elsewhere across Russia, Victory Day events were held on a smaller scale, with some cities cancelling traditional parades entirely or replacing them with virtual commemorations.
The day’s events underscored both the symbolic importance of Victory Day in Russia and the growing impact of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine on national celebrations.
