The Kremlin leader has said Russia’s military action in Ukraine is a timely and necessary response to Western policies.
Addressing the nation, he said the invasion of Ukraine - what he called a "special military operation" - was necessary and had been provoked by the West.
He called Nato "an obvious threat" to Russia and said the Russian military operation had been necessary and the "right decision" and finished his speech to cheers from soldiers in Red Square, cannon fire and the Russian national anthem.
9. Russian President Vladimir Putin greets veterans as he arrives to watch the Victory Day military parade at Red Square in central Moscow on May 9, 2022.
Russia celebrates the 77th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany during World War II. (Photo by Mikhail Metzel via Getty Images) Photo: MIKHAIL METZEL
10. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu leave Red Square after the Victory Day military parade in central Moscow
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu leave Red Square after the Victory Day military parade in central Moscow on May 9, 2022. Photo: KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV
11. Russian President Vladimir Putin watches the Victory Day military parade at Red Square in central Moscow on May 9, 2022
Mr Putin noted that some of the troops taking part in the parade have previously fought in Ukraine. Photo by Mikhail Metzel Photo: MIKHAIL METZEL
12. Russian President Vladimir Putin greets veterans as he arrives to watch the Victory Day military parade at Red Square
Russian President Vladimir Putin greets veterans as he arrives to watch the Victory Day military parade at Red Square in central Moscow on May 9, 2022. Mikhail Metzel via Getty Images) Photo: MIKHAIL METZEL