Putin Justifies Ukraine War at Scaled-Back Victory Day Parade, Denounces NATO
President Vladimir Putin has used the annual Victory Day commemoration in Moscow's Red Square to explicitly justify Russia's ongoing military actions in Ukraine and to denounce the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Speaking before military personnel and a limited number of international guests, Putin characterised the conflict as a 'just' war, asserting that Ukraine functions as an 'aggressive force' receiving arms and backing from the 'whole bloc of NATO'.
Scaled-Back Celebrations
The remarks were delivered amidst significantly reduced Victory Day celebrations across Russia, a holiday marking the Soviet Union's triumph over Nazi Germany. For the first time in nearly twenty years, the Moscow parade featured no military hardware, a decision officials attributed to the 'current operational situation', implying resources are required at the front. Security was notably heightened, reportedly due to concerns over Ukrainian drone activity.
Putin commenced his address by honouring the sacrifices of Soviet soldiers during the Second World War, stating, 'The great feat of the generation of victors inspires the soldiers carrying out the goals of the special military operation today.' He continued, 'They are confronting an aggressive force armed and supported by the whole bloc of NATO. And despite this, our heroes move forward.' He also lauded Russian citizens for their contributions to the war effort, including scientists, inventors, military correspondents, doctors, and teachers, declaring, 'No matter how military tactics change, the future of the country is being provided for by the people.'
Among the few foreign dignitaries present were Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, Laos President Thongloun Sisoulith, and Malaysia's King, Sultan Ibrahim. This represents a marked reduction in international attendance compared to previous years, particularly the 80th-anniversary parade which saw leaders such as China's President Xi Jinping.
Ceasefire Amidst Accusations
The pared-back parade occurred as a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine reportedly held. This truce followed Putin's announcement of a ceasefire for 8-9 May, and Kyiv's earlier call for an indefinite truce beginning on 6 May. Both nations had previously accused each other of numerous violations following these announcements.
