Russian President Vladimir Putin has claimed that the conflict in Ukraine is nearing its conclusion, making the remarks during scaled-back Victory Day celebrations in Moscow. The annual parade commemorating the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II featured fewer military vehicles than in previous years, reflecting ongoing strains on Russia's armed forces.
Putin used his speech to denounce NATO expansion and what he called "Western aggression." At the same time, Ukrainian forces continue to hold defensive lines in the east, with recent Western military aid beginning to arrive at the front. Analysts note that while Putin's rhetoric suggests confidence, the actual military situation remains largely stalemated after more than two years of fighting.
The Victory Day event itself was marked by heightened security, with drones reportedly intercepted over Moscow in the days leading up to the parade. Several Western leaders issued statements condemning what they called Putin's "illegal war of aggression" and reaffirmed their support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.