Russian President Vladimir Putin been on his World War 3 soapbox again, and has drawn direct comparisons between the ongoing invasion of Ukraine and the Soviet Union’s battle against Nazi Germany in 1941, during a speech lacking any self-awarness marking Moscow City Day.

Addressing an audience at the Zaryadye Concert Hall, the Russian leader leaned heavily on historical parallels to justify the continuing conflict, telling the crowd that the country has mobilised all its forces “like 85 years ago, for the sake of the common rightful cause”.

Images from the event show Putin speaking emphatically from the podium and engaging with officials, maintaining a defiant posture despite ongoing pressure from the US, India and more to end his invasion.

In his address, he stated that thousands of residents from the capital are currently “fighting against the neo-Nazis on the line of engagement,” characterising the war in Ukraine as a modern continuation of the struggle against fascism.

He reminded his audience that the path to victory in the Second World War began in the heart of the country, noting that it was on the outskirts of Moscow where “the Nazi armies suffered a crushing blow in 1941”.

He said: “We remember the feat of the heroes of 1812, who repelled the invasion by the armies of entire Europe. It was here, on the outskirts of the capital, that the Nazi armies suffered a crushing blow in 1941.

“The way to Victory started from the heart of the Fatherland. The workers of the capital’s enterprises, research centres and design bureaus, as well as hospitals, performed a truly heroic feat. Throughout the long years of the Great Patriotic War, they supplied the front with weapons and equipment and cared for soldiers and commanders.

“Today, the capital, together with the entire country, has mobilized all its forces, like 85 years ago, for the sake of the common rightful cause. Tens of thousands of Muscovites are fighting against the neo-Nazis on the line of engagement, advancing and displaying valour, courage and heroism.”

Read More: Putin makes more WW3 threats as he claims invasion is just like ‘fighting Hitler in 1941’