President Putin said the Battle of the Kursk Bulge was an important international event that had helped turn the tide of World War II. He said this and other landmark events of Russia’s great history were the source of national pride and patriotism.
Mr Putin said the Red Army had not only won the great Battle of the Kursk Bulge but also prevented the enemy from vindicating itself after the defeats it had suffered near Moscow and Stalingrad. President Putin stressed that the liberation of Europe had begun after the German defeat near Kursk.
The President said soldiers, as well as the entire nation and home front, had made victory possible.
President Putin thanked the veterans for their efforts to preserve glorious historical traditions and to educate younger generations.
Mr Putin also presented state awards to veterans.