Why two Russian officers did not salute Putin at the Victory Day parade VIDEO

Two Russian military officers did not salute Russian President Vladimir Putin during the annual Victory Day parade on Thursday, an annual celebration marking the Soviet defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

In a video published by The Moscow Times, it appears that two officers did not greet Putin as he walked along a line shaking hands, writes newsweek.com.

According to a post circulating on Telegram in Russia, one of the two officers, Viktor Panchenkov, head of the Emergencies Ministry’s Academy, said he followed protocol and asked why his fellow commanders gave Putin a salute.

The military salute is meant to be a sign of recognition and respect, according to Russia Beyond. The gesture is usually performed only by persons in military uniform towards other persons in military uniform, except the head of state and the chief of the army.

In Russia, the president and prime minister are supposed to still be saluted by military personnel, even when not wearing military uniforms.

Putin, 71, is also not seen returning the salute in the Times video.

Putin was present at the Victory Day celebration, which he turned into the country’s most important secular holiday.

The Soviet Union lost an estimated 27 million people during World War II after the Nazis conquered much of the west of the country during the June 1941 invasions.

Putin often talks about his family’s history of fighting at the front during the Nazi siege. For several years, Putin carried a photo of his father during Victory Day marches.

This year’s parade took place two days after Putin began his fifth term. Since coming to power in 1999, Putin has made May 9, considered the end of the war in Europe, a staple event of his presidency.

About 9,000 troops, including 1,000 who fought in Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, took part in Thursday’s parade, the Associated Press reported. to

The battalions paraded through the streets of Moscow, displaying both new and old military equipment. Warplanes flew by, some carrying the white, red and blue of the Russian flag on their backs. A lone Soviet-era tank rolled through Red Square, sparking mockery on social media.

“Victory Day unites all generationsPutin said in a speech that took place on May 9, the coldest day in decades, as snowflakes fell around him.

“We are moving forward based on our centuries-old traditions and are confident that together we will ensure a free and secure future for Russia.”

Putin described Russian troops operating in Ukraine as brave and said the West “fuels regional conflicts, inter-ethnic and inter-religious struggles and seeks to limit sovereign and independent centers of global development”.

“Russia will do everything to prevent a global confrontation, but will not allow anyone to threaten us.” he said. “Our strategic forces are in combat readiness.”