Russian President Vladimir Putin walked from the Kremlin on to Red Square to be greeted by mass ranks of military personnel on Tuesday at the start of Victory Day celebrations to mark the defeat of Nazi Germany in the Second World War.

Victory Day is one of the most important public holidays in Russia, when people commemorate the huge sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during what is called the Great Patriotic War of 1941-45, in which around 27 million citizens perished.

This anniversary is even more emotionally charged as Russia mourns thousands of soldiers killed in the nearly 15-month war in Ukraine which shows no sign of ending.

It is taking place following a wave of strikes inside Russia this month – including a purported drone attack on the Kremlin citadel itself less than a week ago.

State television showed Putin positioned Second World War veterans on Red Square where thousands of Russian army personnel in ceremonial uniform gathered to march to the accompaniment of a military brass band.

The president said that his country's future "rests on" soldiers fighting in Ukraine during a speech at the parade.

"There is nothing more important now than your combat effort," Putin said, addressing troops fighting in Ukraine, some of whom were present at the parade.

"The security of the country rests on you today, the future of our statehood and our people depend on you."

Putin added that "a war has been unleashed against our motherland".

He called for Russia to be victorious: "For Russia, for our armed forces, for victory! Hurrah!" (Reuters/AFP)
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Last updated: 2023-05-09 HKT 16:06