Russia Celebrates Navy Day with Military Parade and Warning to the US
Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the annual Navy Day celebration in St. Petersburg on Sunday, marking the occasion with a military parade and a stern warning to the United States.
The parade, which featured approximately 200 warships of different classes, was attended by navy crews from allied nations, including Algeria, India, and China. Putin expressed gratitude to the crews for their participation and emphasized Russia’s commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities with advanced modern weaponry.
In his address, Putin welcomed the allied nations, saying, “I am pleased to welcome the crews of warships from Algeria, India, China, along with delegates from various foreign countries who have joined us in commemorating today’s special occasion.”
However, Putin’s tone turned more serious when he addressed the US plan to deploy long-range missiles in Germany. He likened the move to the Cold War era and stated that Russia will respond with similar actions.
“If the United States proceeds with such intentions, Russia will no longer adhere to the unilateral moratorium on deploying medium and short-range strike weapons,” Putin warned. “This includes enhancing the capabilities of their naval coastal forces. The final stages of development for several systems are currently underway. Russia will respond with corresponding measures, considering the actions of the United States and its allies in Europe and other global regions.”
Putin also praised the naval crews courageously battling in Ukraine, saying, “I would like to express my deepest respect and gratitude to the brave sailors who are fighting for the independence and sovereignty of Ukraine.”
Russian Navy Day is celebrated on the final Sunday of July, a holiday that was initially founded in 1696 and abolished in 1980 by the Soviet Union. However, President Putin has reinstated the day through a decree.
The celebration is a significant event for Russia, with the country’s defense authorities confirming that the parade featured approximately 200 warships of different classes.
