FALCON POWERS – Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a warning on Thursday, stating that he would not permit the threatening of the world’s largest nuclear power, referring to Russia. During a ceremony commemorating the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, Putin criticized what he called the arrogant Western elites, who he claimed had forgotten the crucial role played by the Soviet Union in defeating Nazi Germany, and accused the West of fueling conflicts around the world.
Speaking in Moscow’s Red Square, Putin affirmed that “Russia will make every effort to prevent a global clash, but at the same time, we will not allow anyone to threaten us. Our forces are always in a state of combat readiness.” He further stated, “The West wants to forget the lessons of World War II,” emphasizing that “Russia honors all the allies who participated in the defeat of Nazi Germany.”
As a display of the preparedness for war, a brief military parade showcased only one T-34 tank, a symbol of Soviet victory, with fighter jets flying overhead and smoke forming the three colors of the Russian flag.
The demonstration also featured the Russian intercontinental ballistic missile, Yars, which a television commentator described as having the capability to strike any target anywhere in the world. The event was attended by leaders from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Cuba, Laos, and Guinea-Bissau.
