A military parade took place on Moscow's Red Square to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany

Russia commemorated the 81st anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany in World War II on May 9 with a parade on Red Square in Moscow.

Smaller military processions and commemorative events were held across the country earlier in the day, honoring the millions who gave their lives to defeat the Third Reich.

The Soviet Union bore the brunt of the war, losing an estimated 27 million people in what is known in Russia as the Great Patriotic War. Victory Day remains one of the country's most important national holidays.

After a series of meetings with foreign leaders, President Vladimir Putin spoke to journalists, commenting on the situation in Ukraine, the conflict involving Iran, Russia's relations with Western countries, and his recent contacts with US President Donald Trump. Putin stated that the Ukrainian conflict "is heading towards completion" and outlined conditions for a possible meeting with Vladimir Zelensky.

Hundreds of people marched through Russian, European, the US', Middle Eastern and Asian cities, carrying portraits of their relatives who fought in WWII. 

Russian soldiers on the frontline have restored some Soviet memorials and military cemeteries. 

As the day drew to a close, spectacular fireworks exploded over the Main Cathedral of the Russian Armed Forces, lighting up the sky in white, blue and red before huge cheering crowds.

Victory Day celebrations have now concluded across Russia and beyond.