Victory Day in Moscow

I want to make it clear that I do not class myself as a proponent of Russian policies or as a supporter of Vladimir Putin.

However, in the current geopolitical situation I am of the firm opinion that modern-day Russia has some moral strength on its side because it is adhering to international law, not projecting its political power outwards, beyond its own sphere of influence – and is largely interested in peace and stability in what the Russians call their “near abroad”

For that reason and because of what is happening in Ukraine (and to Ukrainians) I wish to demonstrate solidarity with the Russian people.

For that reason I have decided to address a small group of Russians living in Wellington, NZ as they celebrate “Dyen' Pobedy” - the 69^th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany which holds special meaning for people of the former USSR as well as reasonable people of the world.

Victory Day parade on Moscow's Red Square 2014

Victory Day is one of the most important holidays for Russia, as it marks the capitulation of Nazi Germany to the Soviet Union in the Second World War on May 9, 1945. Tanks, fighter jets & unrivalled missile defense systems -- the Victory Day parade will stage a military show in the heart of Moscow to mark the 69 year of WWII Victory