Russian President Vladimir Putin began his speech with a series of references to the war in Ukraine and what he claimed was widespread public support for it. He was speaking just weeks before presidential elections.
Putin’s 19th such annual speech was nationally televised and even screened in some cinemas.
Praises Ukraine advances, round-the-clock ammunition production
Putin began his speech with a series of references to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, or its “special military operation” as he refers to it.
He said that Russia had proved its resilience in the face of “the aggression of international terrorism,” and that “we have supported our brothers and sisters and their desire to be with Russia,” a reference to the Kremlin’s frequent claim that it invaded Ukraine to prevent the persecution of Russian-speakers.
He also alluded to Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, saying that it was the anniversary of what he termed the “Russian Spring.”
Putin claimed that a majority of the population supported the miltary action in Ukraine.
He also claimed the Russian military had also gained considerable combat experience in a war that’s now entering its third year.
He noted how core factories, for instance those producing ammunition, had moved to a war footing and were operating 24-hours-a-day over three shifts, thanking them for their efforts.
Putin also praised both businesses and private individuals for their financial or other support for the Russian military.
At one point, he paused for a minute’s silence for fallen Russian soldiers in Ukraine.
Culled from DW