Always one to yearn for the more serene days of the bi-polar global nuclear stand-off that was the Cold War, Vladimir Putin took part in a Soviet-style Victory Day parade in Crimea on Friday, replete with fighter jets, warships and a jubilant crowd.
Celebrating the "historic justice" of Russia’s annexation of the Black Sea peninsula, the trip to Sevastopol marked Putin’s first visit to the region since the overthrow of Ukrainian forces in March. A larger Victory Day parade, an annual holiday in Russia, also took place in Moscow’s Red Square, alongside a similarly large show of force.
In Sevastopol, Putin boarded a boat to inspect the Russian Black Sea Fleet, cheered along by a crowd of tens of thousands, before witnessing a flyby by more than 70 military aircraft. Delivering a speech to the masses, the Russian leader hailed Crimea’s "return to the Motherland", which he described as "historical justice and the memory of our ancestors".
Victory day Russia
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Russia's President Vladimir Putin (C) and World War II veterans watch a parade of honour guard during his visit to the Crimean port of Sevastopol on May 9, 2014. Putin's visit to Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in March, is a 'flagrant violation' of Ukraine's sovereignty, authorities in Kiev said today. AFP PHOTO/ YURI KADOBNOV (Photo credit should read YURI KADOBNOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(02 of29)
Russian T-90 tanks roll at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(03 of29)
Russia's President Vladimir Putin (C) and World War II veterans law flowers at a war memorial during their visit s the Crimean port of Sevastopol on May 9, 2014. Putin's visit to Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in March, is a 'flagrant violation' of Ukraine's sovereignty, authorities in Kiev said today. AFP PHOTO/ YURI KADOBNOV (Photo credit should read YURI KADOBNOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(04 of29)
Russia's President Vladimir Putin lays flowers at a World War II memorial during their visit in the Crimean port of Sevastopol on May 9, 2014. Putin's visit to Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in March, is a 'flagrant violation' of Ukraine's sovereignty, authorities in Kiev said today. AFP PHOTO/ YURI KADOBNOV (Photo credit should read YURI KADOBNOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(05 of29)
A pro-Russia activist waves a red flag as he rides a horse during a rally marking Victory Day in the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk on May 9, 2014. Ukraine's government protested Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to annexed Crimea, where he inspected Russian naval forces in a commemoration of the Soviet victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO/ GENYA SAVILOV (Photo credit should read GENYA SAVILOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(06 of29)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russian militia attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(07 of29)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russia militia attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(08 of29)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russia militia attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(09 of29)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russian militia and self-proclaimed mayor of Slavyansk Vyacheslav Ponomaryov fire weapons into the air during a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
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SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Citizens and pro-Russian militia take part in a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(11 of29)
DONETSK, UKRAINE - MAY 9: Members of the Ukrainian military attend a ceremony commemorating victims of World War II on the Victory Day holiday on May 9, 2014 in Donetsk, Ukraine. Tensions in Eastern Ukraine are high after pro-Russian activists seized control of at least ten cities and ahead of the Victory Day holiday and a planned referendum on greater autonomy for the region. (Photo by Brendan Hoffman/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(12 of29)
Veterans arrive to lay flowers on May 9, 2014 near the tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Antakalnis memorial during Victory Day celebrations in Vilnius, Lithuania. AFP PHOTO / PETRAS MALUKAS (Photo credit should read PETRAS MALUKAS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(13 of29)
A women greets a WWII veteran as Latvia's large Russian minority gathered to mark 69 years since the end of WWII during Victory Day celebrations at the Soviet Victory Monument in Riga on May 9, 2014. AFP PHOTO/ ILMARS ZNOTINSAFP PHOTO/ ILMARS ZNOTINS (Photo credit should read ILMARS ZNOTINS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
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A youth wearing a military helmet bearing the so-called Donetsk People's Republic flag attends a rally marking Victory Day in the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk on May 9, 2014. Ukraine's government protested Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to annexed Crimea, where he inspected Russian naval forces in a commemoration of the Soviet victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO/ GENYA SAVILOV (Photo credit should read GENYA SAVILOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(15 of29)
People wave the Russian flags and the flags of so-called Donetsk People's Republic as they march to mark Victory Day in the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk on May 9, 2014. Ukraine's government protested Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to annexed Crimea, where he inspected Russian naval forces in a commemoration of the Soviet victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO/ GENYA SAVILOV (Photo credit should read GENYA SAVILOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(16 of29)
A pro-Russia activist waves a red flag as he rides a horse during a rally marking Victory Day in the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk on May 9, 2014. Ukraine's government protested Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to annexed Crimea, where he inspected Russian naval forces in a commemoration of the Soviet victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO/ GENYA SAVILOV (Photo credit should read GENYA SAVILOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(17 of29)
A woman shouts slogans while waving a flag in the colours of the Saint George ribbon during a rally marking Victory Day in the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk on May 9, 2014. Ukraine's government protested Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to annexed Crimea, where he inspected Russian naval forces in a commemoration of the Soviet victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO/ GENYA SAVILOV (Photo credit should read GENYA SAVILOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(18 of29)
A pro-Russia activist holds a hammer bearing the flag of the so-called Donetsk People's Republic during a rally marking Victory Day in the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk on May 9, 2014. Ukraine's government protested Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to annexed Crimea, where he inspected Russian naval forces in a commemoration of the Soviet victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO/ GENYA SAVILOV (Photo credit should read GENYA SAVILOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(19 of29)
Denis Pushilin (C), chairman of the so-called interim government of People's Republic of Donetsk, attends a rally marking Victory Day in the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk on May 9, 2014. Ukraine's government protested Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to annexed Crimea, where he inspected Russian naval forces in a commemoration of the Soviet victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO/ GENYA SAVILOV (Photo credit should read GENYA SAVILOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(20 of29)
Armed pro-Russia militiants take part in a rally marking Victory Day in eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk on May 9, 2014. Russian President Vladimir Putin took a victory lap in his first visit to Crimea since its annexation by Russia, as fighting in eastern Ukraine left 21 dead just days ahead of a separatist vote. AFP PHOTO/ ALEXANDER KHUDOTEPLY (Photo credit should read Alexander KHUDOTEPLY/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(21 of29)
Armed pro-Russia militiants take part in a rally marking Victory Day in eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk on May 9, 2014. Russian President Vladimir Putin took a victory lap in his first visit to Crimea since its annexation by Russia, as fighting in eastern Ukraine left 21 dead just days ahead of a separatist vote. AFP PHOTO/ ALEXANDER KHUDOTEPLY (Photo credit should read Alexander KHUDOTEPLY/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(22 of29)
DONETSK, UKRAINE - MAY 9: People attend a ceremony commemorating victims of World War II on the Victory Day holiday on May 9, 2014 in Donetsk, Ukraine. Tensions in Eastern Ukraine are high after pro-Russian activists seized control of at least ten cities and ahead of the Victory Day holiday and a planned referendum on greater autonomy for the region. (Photo by Brendan Hoffman/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(23 of29)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Self-proclaimed mayor of Slavyansk Vyacheslav Ponomaryov and pro-Russia militia attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(24 of29)
Russian soldiers march at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(25 of29)
Russian Mil Mi-28 helicopter gunships fly above the Kremlin's cathedrals in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(26 of29)
Russian soldiers march at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(27 of29)
A child gives flowers to a WWII veteran in front of a WWII monument during a ceremony marking the Victory Day in the Ukrainian capital of Kiev on May 9, 2014. Ukraine's government on Friday protested Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to annexed Crimea, where he inspected Russian naval forces in a commemoration of the Soviet victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO/ SERGEI SUPINSKY (Photo credit should read SERGEI SUPINSKY/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(28 of29)
A man lays flowers on a WWII monument during a ceremony marking the Victory Day in the Ukrainian capital of Kiev on May 9, 2014. Ukraine's government on Friday protested Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to annexed Crimea, where he inspected Russian naval forces in a commemoration of the Soviet victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO/ SERGEI SUPINSKY (Photo credit should read SERGEI SUPINSKY/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
(29 of29)
A girls runs in front of a WWII monument during a ceremony marking the Victory Day in the Ukrainian capital of Kiev on May 9, 2014. Ukraine's government on Friday protested Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to annexed Crimea, where he inspected Russian naval forces in a commemoration of the Soviet victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO/ SERGEI SUPINSKY (Photo credit should read SERGEI SUPINSKY/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Victory Day celebrations in Russia and Ukraine
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(01 of47)
Russian honour guard troopers ride during a Victory Day parade at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(02 of47)
A Russian Topol-M intercontinental ballistic missile launcher drives at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(03 of47)
Russian Sukhoi Su-25 ground-attack aircraft release smoke in the colours of the Russian flag while flying above the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(04 of47)
Russia's President Vladimir Putin speaks at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(05 of47)
Russian soldiers march at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(06 of47)
Russian soldiers march at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(07 of47)
Russian soldiers march at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(08 of47)
Russian military academy cadets shout at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(09 of47)
Russia's President Vladimir Putin (C), Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu (L) and Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev (R) attend a Victory Day parade at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(10 of47)
Russian Sukhoi Su-25 ground-attack aircraft release smoke in the colours of the Russian flag while flying above the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(11 of47)
A Russian honour guard soldier marches at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(12 of47)
Russian military academy cadets march at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(13 of47)
Russian military academy cadets march at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(14 of47)
Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu makes the military salute at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(15 of47)
Russia's President Vladimir Putin attends a Victory Day parade at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(16 of47)
Russian soldiers march at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(17 of47)
A column of Russia's air defence system S-400 Triumf launch vehicles rolls at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(18 of47)
Russian Sukhoi Su-24 all-weather attack aircraft fly above the Kremlin's cathedrals in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(19 of47)
Russian soldiers march at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(20 of47)
Russian soldiers march at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(21 of47)
Russian Mil Mi-28 helicopter gunships fly above the Kremlin's cathedrals in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(22 of47)
Russian soldiers ride atop their armoured personnel carrier at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(23 of47)
Russian T-90 tanks roll at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(24 of47)
Russian T-90 tanks roll at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(25 of47)
Russian Msta-S self-propelled howitzers roll at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014, during a Victory Day parade. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
KYRGYZSTAN-POLITICS-HISTORY-WWII(26 of47)
A Kyrgyz World War II veteran walks near the Eternal Flame monument during Victory Day celebrations in the Kyrgyzstan's capital Bishkek on May 9, 2014. Russia and ex-Soviet republics marked today the 69 years since the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in the World War II. AFP PHOTO / VYACHESLAV OSELEDKO (Photo credit should read VYACHESLAV OSELEDKO/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
KYRGYZSTAN-POLITICS-HISTORY-WWII(27 of47)
A Kyrgyz World War II female veteran and her grandson walk near the Eternal Flame monument during Victory Day celebrations in the Kyrgyzstan's capital Bishkek on May 9, 2014. Russia and ex-Soviet republics marked today the 69 years since the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in the World War II. AFP PHOTO / VYACHESLAV OSELEDKO (Photo credit should read VYACHESLAV OSELEDKO/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
KYRGYZSTAN-POLITICS-HISTORY-WWII(28 of47)
A Kyrgyz World War II veteran and his daughter walk near the Eternal Flame monument during Victory Day celebrations in the Kyrgyzstan's capital Bishkek on May 9, 2014. Russia and ex-Soviet republics marked today the 69 years since the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in the World War II. AFP PHOTO / VYACHESLAV OSELEDKO (Photo credit should read VYACHESLAV OSELEDKO/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
KYRGYZSTAN-POLITICS-HISTORY-WWII(29 of47)
World War II veterans walk near the Eternal Flame monument during Victory Day celebrations in the Kyrgyzstan's capital Bishkek on May 9, 2014. Russia and ex-Soviet republics marked today the 69 years since the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in the World War II. AFP PHOTO / VYACHESLAV OSELEDKO (Photo credit should read VYACHESLAV OSELEDKO/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
RUSSIA-UKRAINE-POLITICS-CRISIS-HISTORY-WWII-ARMY(30 of47)
Russia's President Vladimir Putin (L) attends a Victory Day parade at the Red Square in Moscow, on May 9, 2014. Thousands of Russian troops marched today in Red Square to mark 69 years since victory in World War II in a show of military might amid tensions in Ukraine following Moscow's annexation of Crimea. AFP PHOTO / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
UKRAINE-RUSSIA-CRISIS(31 of47)
Locals attend a celebration of the Victory Day in the eastern Ukranian city of Slavyansk on May 9, 2014, to mark 69 years since victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO / VASILY MAXIMOV (Photo credit should read VASILY MAXIMOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
UKRAINE-RUSSIA-CRISIS(32 of47)
Locals attend a celebration of the Victory Day in the eastern Ukranian city of Slavyansk on May 9, 2014, to mark 69 years since victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO / VASILY MAXIMOV (Photo credit should read VASILY MAXIMOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
UKRAINE-RUSSIA-CRISIS(33 of47)
Locals attend a celebration of the Victory Day in the eastern Ukranian city of Slavyansk on May 9, 2014, to mark 69 years since victory in World War II. AFP PHOTO / VASILY MAXIMOV (Photo credit should read VASILY MAXIMOV/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(34 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Veterans and pro-Russian citizens attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(35 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russian citizens dance during a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(36 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russian citizens dance during a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(37 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russian militia attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(38 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russian militants and citizens attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(39 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Citizens and pro-Russian militia embrace during a 'Victory Day' ceremony at the tomb of the unknown soldier marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(40 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russian militia attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony at the tomb of the unknown soldier marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(41 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russian militia and self-proclaimed mayor of Slavyansk Vyacheslav Ponomaryov fire weapons into the air during a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(42 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Self-proclaimed mayor of Slavyansk Vyacheslav Ponomaryov and pro-Russia militia attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(43 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russia militia attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(44 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: People attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(45 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russia militia attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(46 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Pro-Russian militia and self-proclaimed mayor of Slavyansk Vyacheslav Ponomaryov attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Pro Russians Celebrate Victory Day In Eastern Ukraine(47 of47)
SLOVYANSK, UKRAINE - MAY 09: Self-proclaimed mayor of Slavyansk Vyacheslav Ponomaryov and pro-Russia militia attend a 'Victory Day' ceremony marking the end of World War II on May 9, 2014 in Slovyansk, Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country have scheduled a referendum Sunday on independence from Ukraine. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)