May 9 marks Russia’s Victory Day, the country's largest public holiday and a symbol of its national pride. Often cited as the near-equivalent of the United States’ Fourth of July, Russian President Vladimir Putin has long used the holiday, which celebrates the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, to glorify Russia and himself. During a military parade in Moscow's Red Square on Monday, Putin said his troops in Ukraine were "fighting for the motherland, its future." But he did not, as some analysts and Western officials expected, use his speech to declare a full mobilization or "war" against Ukraine. There was no declaration of victory. The annual parade showcases Russia's military power and involves thousands of military hardware and hundreds of aircraft. Tap the link in bio to read more. 📸 @apnews, @afpphoto via @gettyimages #russia #vladimirputin