Putin: We Will Not Allow Anyone to Threaten Us

Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed on Thursday that his country will not allow any threats against it, emphasizing that Russia's strategic nuclear forces are in a state of "constant readiness." He stated, "Russia will do its utmost to avoid a global confrontation, but at the same time, we will not allow anyone to threaten us. Our strategic forces are in a state of constant readiness." The Russian president has repeatedly asserted that the war his country is currently waging in Ukraine is an existential battle against "Nazism." Putin typically uses the speech on May 9 to honor his soldiers and war veterans and to showcase Russian military equipment that he hopes will be seen by everyone around the world.