Russia's Putin marks the Defender of the Fatherland Day

Russia's Putin marks the Defender of the Fatherland Day

ROUGH CUT (NO REPORTER NARRATION)br br Russian President Vladimir Putin attended on Sunday a wreath laying ceremony to mark the Defender of the Fatherland Day, a nationwide holiday that honours the nation's military.br br The ceremony took place as Ukraine's pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovich was ousted by parliament after three months of street protests. Yanukovich's departure should pull Ukraine away from Moscow's orbit and closer to Europe. It is a reversal for Putin's dream of recreating as much as possible of the Soviet Union in a new Eurasian Union.br br Sunday is also the last day of the Sochi Winter Olympics with Russia on top of the medals table in a surprise sporting success for the host nation. Putin has staked his reputation on staging a successful Games.


User: Reuters

Views: 726

Uploaded: 2014-02-23

Duration: 00:47

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