Emboldened in Ukraine, Russia marks patriotic holiday

President Vladimir Putin praised the fighters in Ukraine on the eve of the offensive's second anniversary, acknowledging their efforts against Ukrainian troops struggling with ammunition shortages. Putin's message was delivered on Moscow's "Defender of the Fatherland Day" patriotic holiday, which traditionally showcases military pomp and Kremlin-backed patriotism. Earlier this week he mocked what he called the "chaotic flight" of Ukrainian soldiers from Avdiivka.