President Vladimir Putin delivered a speech at a scaled-back Victory Day parade in Moscow on Saturday, marking the 81st anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany. The event unfolded as a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, brokered by former US President Donald Trump, came into effect.
Ceasefire and Prisoner Swap
Trump announced the ceasefire, which covers Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, and includes a prisoner swap of 1,000 individuals from each side. Both Russia and Ukraine confirmed they would observe the truce, which began at 10 am Kyiv time. Trump stated the ceasefire would suspend "all kinetic activity."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a decree "permitting" Russia's Victory Day military parade and confirmed that Ukrainian forces would not target Moscow's Red Square.
Putin's Address
In his speech, Putin praised Russian troops fighting in Ukraine, asserting they face an "aggressive force" supported by NATO. He declared, "Victory has always been and will be ours." The parade was notably smaller than in previous years, reflecting the ongoing conflict.
