moscow - Russia staged what were, arguably, the country's most spectacular celebrations on Sunday to mark the 65th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War.

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin were joined by leaders from more than 20 countries, including China, to watch the grand parade through Red Square that was the centerpiece of the weekend celebrations.

"I congratulate you on the day of great victory," Medvedev said in an address to the guests and thousands of servicemen assembled in the iconic square.