Analysis: Putin uses Victory Day to launch another scathing attack on the West

 

Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech during a military parade on Victory Day in Red Square in central Moscow, Russia, on May 9. 

(Gavriil Grigorov/Sputnik/Reuters)

Russian President Vladimir Putin used the annual Victory Day parade to launch yet another scathing attack on the West, accusing it of holding Ukraine hostage to its anti-Russian plans. 

He also again drew comparisons, falsely, between the conflict in Ukraine and the fight against Nazi forces in World War II, saying that civilisation is at a turning point and claiming that “real war” has been unleashed against Russia. 

Throughout the short address, Putin praised Russian troops fighting in what the Kremlin calls a “special military operation” in Ukraine, saying the country is “proud” of everyone who fights on the frontlines. 

There is no more important thing now than your combat work,” Putin said.

However, no mention was made of the high casualties suffered by Russian troops, which are estimated to be in the tens of thousands.