Russia’s President Vladimir Putin said his forces were “always ready” to combat external threats, as he addressed crowds gathered at Moscow’s Red Square on Thursday to celebrate the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
Russia’s annual May 9 Victory Day procession has long been a key event in Putin’s calendar as a chance for him to rally public support and show off his country’s military power.
While there were even fewer soldiers and military gear on display than last year’s already subdued event, Victory Day this year comes with Russia making advances on the frontlines in Ukraine.
Putin gave his speech after inspecting the traditional display of tanks and columns of troops parading through the capital.
“Russia will do everything in order to not let a global confrontation begin,” Putin said, adding: “But we will not let anyone threaten us, our strategic forces are always ready.”
“Dear friends, Russia is going through a difficult period,” the Russian leader continued, saying the “fight of our motherland depends on every one of us.”
