Hardly any other country marks the end of World War II with the same fanfare and fervor as Russia, for which the victory over Nazi Germany 80 years ago remains a source of immense pride and a defining moment of history.

President Vladimir Putin is hosting Russia’s celebrations for the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. The outcome of the war he started in Ukraine remains far from certain.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is hosting heads of states for festivities Friday marking the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II

The Russian president applauded China and Russia's partnership and called "the combat brotherhood" of the two nations a key pillar to its strategic cooperation, as Moscow's all-out war in Ukraine continues.

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Moscow on May 8 and held his first meeting with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, the Russian state news agency Ria Novosti reported. Xi is one of 27 leaders expected to attend the Victory Day parade in the Russian capital on May 9.

Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday (May 8) for talks in the Kremlin that Moscow hopes will provide a diplomatic boost for the Russian leader at a key moment in the war with Ukraine.