On Thursday, Russia celebrated the 79th anniversary of the victory. The central event of the holiday is the Victory Parade, which takes place on Red Square in the Russian capital of Moscow.
During the parade, the country's President and Commander-in-Chief of its armed forces, Vladimir Putin, traditionally addressed the people of Russia. Sputnik Africa collected key points from his speech.
Putin began his speech by congratulating the parade participants on Victory Day, which he called a “sacred holiday,” adding that it unites all generations. He once again underscored that Russia will always remember and will never forget the common struggle and alliance in the fight against Nazism.
Furthermore, Russia honors the bravery of all soldiers of the anti-Hitler coalition, Putin said, adding that the country has never underestimated the importance of the Second Front during the war years and will always remember and never forget the common struggle and traditions of the alliance in the fight against Nazism.
Russians bow their heads to the fallen veterans of the Great Patriotic War and comrades who fell in the fight against Nazism, Putin continued, adding that together they will be able to ensure a free and safe future for Russia.
The Russian leader criticized Western countries, accusing them of trying to distort the truth about World War II since it interferes with those who build colonial policy on lies. He added that revanchism, mockery of history and justification of Nazism are part of the general policy of Western elites.
Russia also rejects the claims of any state or alliance to exclusivity, as history has shown what the exorbitance of such ambitions leads to.
Furthermore, Putin pointed out that Russian strategic forces are always on alert and will not allow anyone to threaten the country, but the country will do everything to prevent a global conflict.
The head of state also touched on the topic of the Russian special military operation. He called all of its participants heroes, saying that “all of Russia is with them.” At the same time, Putin pointed out that Russia is going through a difficult, transitional period, and the fate of the homeland and its future depends on each of us.