President Vladimir Putin addressed a military parade on May 9, 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War.
In his speech, Putin praised the bravery and determination of Soviet soldiers and veterans, while also warning against attempts to distort historical events.
“Today, we are all united by feelings of joy and sorrow, pride and gratitude, worship of a generation that crushed Nazism, at the cost of millions of lives, won freedom and peace for all mankind,” Putin said.
The Russian leader emphasised the importance of preserving the truth about World War II and honoring the sacrifices of those who fought against Nazism. “We will never agree to distort its events, with the attempts to justify the executioners and to bribe the genuine winners,” he stated.
Putin also highlighted the crucial role of the Soviet Union in defeating Nazi Germany and the significance of the Victory Day celebrations. “The Soviet Union took on the most ferocious, merciless blows of the enemy.
Millions of people, who knew only peaceful labour, took up arms and stood to death at all heights, plazdarmas and borders, determined the outcome of the entire Second World War with unconditional victories in the largest battles of Moscow and Stalingrad, on the Kursk Arc and the Dnieper,” he said.
The president expressed gratitude to veterans and acknowledged the contributions of soldiers from different nationalities who fought against Nazism. “We honor every veteran of the Great Patriotic War and we bow our heads in the memory of all who gave their lives for the Victory,” Putin added.
In his speech, Putin also emphasized Russia’s commitment to fighting against Nazism, Russophobia, anti-Semitism, and other destructive ideologies. “Russia has been and will be an unbreakable barrier for Nazism, Russophobia, anti-Semitism, it will fight against the atrocities created by the supporters of these aggressive, destructive ideas,” he stated.
The military parade was attended by veterans, soldiers, and government officials, among others. Putin’s speech was met with applause and cheers from the audience.
As the celebrations concluded, Putin ended his speech with a message of pride and unity. “Hail to the Victorious Nation! Happy Holidays! Happy Great Victory Day!” he exclaimed.