"We will always remember the feat of the Soviet people. That it was they who made the decisive contribution to the defeat of Nazism, saved their country, and saved the world. They put an end to total, merciless evil. They restored sovereignty to those states that had capitulated to Nazi Germany and become obedient accomplices in its crimes," Putin said during a parade marking the 81st anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.
Soviet soldiers endured colossal losses to save the freedom and dignity of the peoples of Europe, Putin said.
"Our soldiers endured colossal losses, colossal sacrifices, for the sake of the freedom and dignity of the peoples of Europe. He became the embodiment of courage and nobility, resilience and humanity, and crowned himself with the great glory of a monumental victory," he said.
On Special Military Operation Soldiers
The great feat of the victorious generation inspires the participants of the special military operation, Putin said.
"Dear friends, the great feat of the victorious generation inspires the soldiers who are today carrying out the tasks of the special military operation," Russian president said.
Putin also noted that Russian soldiers are confronting an aggressive force that is supported and armed by the entire NATO bloc.
"Despite this, our heroes are moving forward," he emphasized.
Russia is building modern weapons based on combat experience, Putin said.
"Alongside the Russian soldiers are workers and designers, engineers, scientists, inventors. They continue the traditions of their predecessors, relying on modern combat experience to create advanced, unique weapons, and launch their mass production," Putin said during his address at the Victory Day parade.
Other Statements:
Caring for the Fatherland unites all of Russia
Preserving the memory of the Great Patriotic War is a matter of honor for Russians