Vladimir Putin: Russia Will Overcome All Difficulties

On the occasion of Victory Day, Russian president Vladimir Putin presented awards to WWII veterans and Russian servicemen who are taking part in the counter-terrorist operation in Chechnya. Congratulating them, the president called Victory Day one of "the national memory and pride" of the peoples of Russia. In Putin's words, "in those days the whole world saw: it is impossible to conquer such a nation". Our country, said the Russian president, has strengthened and affirmed its prestige as a world power. "If we won that war and upheld peace on earth, this means that we shall overcome all difficulties now, too", said Vladimir Putin. The president presented orders and medals to ten WII veterans. Eight participants in the operation in Chechnya were also presented state awards, with two of them receiving the highest distinction - the title of Hero of Russia.