Putin lays wreath to mark WWII anniversary

Putin lays wreath to mark WWII anniversary

Thousands of Russians have taken part in events to mark the Day of Remembrance and Sorrow, from commemoration marches to concerts.

Thousands of Russians have taken part in events to mark the Day of Remembrance and Sorrow, from commemoration marches to concerts.

President Vladimir Putin was accompanied by Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, government officials and religious leaders.

The day marks the beginning of the war for Russia when Nazi leader Adolf Hitler launched an invasion of the Soviet Union on 22 June 1941.

Memorial ceremonies are also taking place across the country to honour the victims of the 1941 Great Patriotic War that lasted 1418 days and claimed the lives of 27 million people.

Latest video