Russia’s Ukraine operation is protecting national future – Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has defended his country’s ongoing military campaign in Ukraine, insisting that the operation is necessary for Russia’s long-term security and national survival.

He made the remarks during his annual Victory Day address delivered at Moscow’s Red Square, where he spoke before hundreds of military personnel and invited guests as Russia marked its most significant national holiday commemorating the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany.

In his speech, Putin maintained that Russia was engaged in what he described as a “just” conflict, arguing that the country was acting in defence of its sovereignty amid what he portrayed as external pressure and hostility.

“The great feat of the generation of victors inspires the soldiers carrying out the goals of the special military operation today,” he said, referring to the war in Ukraine, which has now lasted more than four years.

“They are confronting an aggressive force armed and supported by the whole bloc of Nato. And despite this, our heroes move forward.”

His comments were delivered during scaled-down celebrations in Moscow, with security concerns leading to reduced displays compared to previous years. Notably, no armoured vehicles or ballistic missiles were featured in this year’s parade, although large formations of military personnel still marched through Red Square under tight security.

Ahead of the event, Russia and Ukraine had agreed to observe a three-day ceasefire, announced by US President Donald Trump. However, shortly after the parade, Russia’s Defence Ministry accused Ukraine of violating the ceasefire, though no detailed evidence was immediately provided. Ukrainian authorities did not respond at the time.

Putin also used the occasion to praise Russian citizens contributing to the war effort, including scientists, doctors, teachers, inventors, and military correspondents, stressing that national development depended on the population’s commitment.

“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 several foreign leaders, including Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was also present, making him the only European Union leader in attendance.

Following the parade, Putin laid flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier before attending a reception at the Kremlin.

Victory Day celebrations were also held in several other Russian cities, including Vladivostok, Krasnoyarsk, and St Petersburg, although some events were scaled down or cancelled due to security concerns.

Under Putin’s leadership, the annual celebration has increasingly been used to project military strength and reinforce public support for Russia’s war effort in Ukraine.