Putin stirs patriotic support for troops in Ukraine on public holiday.
Putin used the Day of Russia national holiday to praise the country's patriotic tradition as a support for soldiers fighting in Ukraine. He expressed shock at Ukraine's attacks on civilian areas and humanitarian facilities. The holiday comes amid intensifying counteroffensive operations by Ukraine against Russian forces that occupy about 20% of the country. The Day of Russia marks Russia's declaration of sovereignty in 1990, which is seen as marking the beginning of constitutional reform in Russia.