World leaders in Moscow for Victory Day celebrations

Russia is welcoming leaders from around the world to mark the 60th anniversary celebrations of victory over Nazi Germany. The US President flew into Moscow last night. Despite George W. Bush’s earlier comments over Russia’s post war legacy, relations with his counterpart Vladimir Putin appeared relaxed.

Bush seemed to steer clear of any critical remarks and hailed the courage and sacrifice of Russians during the Second World War.

Just a few days beforehand in Latvia, he had branded the Soviet occupation of Eastern Europe, “one of the greatest wrongs of history.” As well as enjoying today’s parade, the US leader is also expected to use the trip to press Putin over what is widely seen as Russia’s backsliding on democracy.

But last night at least, the spirit of camaraderie appeared to override any possible disagreement, with Putin allowing his American guest to take to the wheel of his vintage Soviet era car.

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