Putin denounces Nato at scaled back Russia's Victory Day parade

The Russian leader used his annual speech to justify his so-called special military operation in Ukraine.

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Speaking in front of hundreds of military personnel, the Russian president said he was fighting a "just" war and called Ukraine an "aggressive force" that is being "armed and supported by the whole bloc of Nato".

His remarks come amid muted celebrations across Russia to mark the nation's biggest national holiday, commemorating the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany.

Ahead of the celebrations, curtailed for security reasons amid fears of Ukrainian attack, Russia and Ukraine agreed to observe a three-day ceasefire, announced by US President Donald Trump on Friday.

Following the parade, Russia's defence ministry accused Ukraine of breaking the ceasefire, without providing details. Ukraine did not immediately comment.