Single tank on display as Vladimir Putin says country is going through ‘difficult times’

Russia displayed only one tank in this year’s Victory Day parade.

Every year, Moscow dresses up in patriotic regalia for Victory Day, a celebration of its victory over Nazi Germany during World War II.

Today marks the 79th anniversary and Mr. Putin addressed the parade on Red Square, trying to highlight his country’s military capabilities in a speech aimed at both foreign and domestic audiences.

Vladimir Putin used his Victory Day speech this year to try to warn that Russia’s fighting forces were “always ready”, but admitted the country was going through a “difficult period”.

At the parade in Moscow, only one tank was present for the entire show, as the country continues to devote considerable firepower and resources to its war in Ukraine.

The T34 tank from World War II was the only one present – ​​like last year too.

Other armored vehicles were photographed as thousands of military personnel marched along the parade.

In his speech this year, Mr Putin admitted that Russia was going through a “difficult period” because “the future of the homeland depends on us”.

“Today, Victory Day, we are even more aware of this,” he said before warning: “Our strategic forces are always ready for combat.”

The Kremlin leader also said Russia’s nuclear forces are still combat-ready, as he addressed the massive ranks of Russian military personnel.

Mr. Putin said on Thursday that Russia would do everything in its power to avoid a global confrontation, but would not allow anyone to threaten it.

He also used the speech to send a message to Russian troops fighting in Ukraine, trying to boost their morale as the war continues to drag on.

He finished: “For Russia! For victory! Hurray!” Prompting thousands of soldiers to clap back.

Since coming to power on the last day of 1999, Mr. Putin has made May 9 an important part of his political agenda, marked by displays of military power.

Every year, columns of military vehicles and missiles pass through Red Square and squadrons of fighter jets roar overhead as medal-decorated veterans join him to watch the parade.

Many wear the black and orange St. George ribbon, traditionally associated with VE Day.