Moscow, May 9, 2026 (FMC) – Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that engineers, scientists, inventors and defence sector workers are contributing to the development and mass production of advanced weapons systems, as Russia marked the 81st anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945.
The Victory Day ceremony in Moscow was attended by several foreign heads of state and senior international representatives alongside military officials, veterans, and invited dignitaries participating in the commemoration.
Speaking during the military parade on Friday, President Putin stated that workers, designers, engineers, scientists and inventors are continuing the traditions of previous generations while relying on modern combat experience to develop what he described as advanced and unique defence systems.
In his address, the Russian President described Victory Day as a sacred and important national holiday, emphasizing the significance of preserving the historical memory of the Second World War and honoring what he referred to as its true heroes.
President Vladimir Putin stated that the Soviet people made a decisive contribution to the defeat of Nazism, adding that they defended their country, restored sovereignty to several states, and brought an end to what he described as widespread destruction and violence during the war period.
Recalling the origins of the conflict, he referred to June 22, 1941, as one of the most tragic dates in Russian history, marking the beginning of the Great Patriotic War following the invasion of the Soviet Union by Nazi Germany.
He stated that the invasion sought to seize territory, destroy cultural and historical heritage, and carry out mass violence and extermination against the multi-ethnic Soviet population, adding that forces from across Europe were mobilized for the war effort.
President Putin further highlighted what he described as the strength of spirit and resilience of the Soviet people during the conflict, saying these qualities played a key role in resisting the invasion despite extensive wartime preparations by Nazi forces.
He also paid tribute to soldiers and civilians who lost their lives during the war, including victims of the siege of Leningrad and other encircled cities and settlements.
The Russian President linked the legacy of the wartime generation to current military efforts, stating that members of the armed forces continue to draw inspiration from the achievements and sacrifices of the Victory generation.
Concluding the address, President Putin expressed confidence in Russia’s position, stating that national unity remains central to the country’s strength.