Russia’s President Vladimir Putin said his forces were "always ready" to counter any external threats during his speech to mark the anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
As per CNN, addressing the crowd gathered at Moscow’s Red Square on Thursday, Putin emphasized that no entity would be allowed to threaten the world's largest nuclear power.
Meanwhile, Russia’s annual May 9 Victory Day procession has long been a key event in Putin’s calendar, providing an opportunity for him to garner public support and showcase his country’s military prowess.
After observing the usual display of tanks and soldiers marching through the city, Putin delivered his speech.
He stated, "Russia will do everything to prevent a global confrontation, but we will not tolerate any threats, as our strategic forces are always prepared."
Putin continued, "Dear friends, Russia is facing challenging times, and the defence of our motherland depends on each of us."
"Today, on Victory Day, this realization is even more poignant," he concluded, ending his speech with a minute of silence.
Meanwhile, Russia’s Defence Minister, Army General Sergei Shoigu, announced in a statement on Telegram that 9,000 personnel and 70 pieces of military equipment would participate in the main military parade on Red Square, marking a reduction from last year's event.
Moreover, several world leaders, primarily from former Soviet countries, were invited to the event.
Notable attendees included Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, and Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan, among others.
It is pertinent to note that during World War II, the Soviet Union suffered a staggering loss of 27 million people, including many from Ukraine.
