Russia won't let anyone threaten it — Putin on Victory Day

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that Moscow would do everything to avoid a clash of global powers but would not let itself be threatened, in a speech to mark the anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two. (Photo/AFP)

Putin was addressing massed ranks of Russian servicemen on Red Square on Thursday.

"Russia will do everything to prevent a global clash. But at the same time we will not allow anyone to threaten us," Putin said in a short speech as flurries of snow whipped across the vast square.

"Our strategic forces are always in a state of combat readiness."

After calling for a minute of silence, Putin ended with the words:

"For Russia! For victory! Hurrah!", providing the cue for thousands of troops to answer with three loud cheers.

Russia often invites representatives from countries it deems "friendly" to the event, though attendance had dwindled even before it sent troops into Ukraine in early 2022 amid a stand-off with the West.

Nine world leaders attended Thursday's parade -- the heads of ex-Soviet republics Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan -- as well as the leaders of Cuba, Laos and Guinea-Bissau.

The 71-year-old Putin has ruled Russia since the turn of the century, securing a fresh six-year mandate in March after winning presidential elections devoid of all opposition.

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Source: TRT