Putin defends Ukraine war on Victory Day
Russian President Vladimir Putin used his annual Victory Day address in Moscow’s Red Square to defend Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine and sharply criticize North Atlantic Treaty Organization (Nato). Speaking before hundreds of soldiers and military officials during the May 9 celebrations, Putin described the conflict in Ukraine as a “just war” and accused Nato of backing what he called an aggressive Ukrainian government. According to the Russian leader, Moscow is confronting a military force supported by the entire Western alliance. Victory Day remains one of Russia’s most important national commemorations, marking the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany during World War II. However, this year’s celebrations were more restrained than in previous years due to heightened security concerns linked to the war in Ukraine and fears of possible drone attacks. Ahead of the ceremonies, Russia and Ukraine agreed to […]
