Russia marks Victory Day, "demonstrates military might"

Russia marks Victory Day, "demonstrates military might"

MOSCOW -- Europe is celebrating Victory Day over WW2 fascism, and in Moscow, a large military parade was held that was attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The traditional parade that this year marked the 69th anniversary of victory in World War II attracted worldwide media attention due to the crisis in Ukraine and strained relations between the West and Russia.

The Kremlin this year demonstrated its military might to the world with a record number of aircraft and vehicles.

The parade on Red Square included the participation of more than 11,000 soldiers and officers of the armed forces, the police, and cadets.

69 combat aircraft and helicopters flew over the square, while the ground forces showed 149 military vehicles, including the new anti-aircraft missile systems Tor-M2U.

As reported by the Russian media, "the most modern weapons" that exist today have been presented.

(Beta/AP, file)

President Putin, who is chief of the Russian armed forces, addressed the parade that was this year covered by more than 600 journalists from around the world. Although some have speculated that he would directly reflect on the situation in Ukraine in his speech, he did not.

However, Putin told the thousands gathered in Moscow that it was of crucial importance to defend the vital interests of the state.

"This is a feast where the irresistible force of patriotism triumphs, when we all clearly feel what it means to be loyal to our homeland and how important it is to defend its interests," said Putin, adding that "the iron will of the Soviet people liberated Europe."

The parade was opened by Defense Minister...