Vladimir Putin lauds Russian national flag and self-determination

Mr Putin and other officials have said Russia sent troops into Ukraine effectively as a protective measure against the encroaching West

People carry a giant Russian flag during celebration of the Day of The National Flag in Mamayev Kurgan, the Second World War Battle of Stalingrad memorial, in Volgograd, Russia (Alexandr Kulikov/AP)

Vladimir Putin has lauded Russia’s flag as a symbol of a country determined to defend its interests and remain loyal to traditional values.

In a video address marking National Flag Day on Monday, the Russian President did not mention Russia’s six-month-old military operation in Ukraine, but echoed some of the justifications cited for sending in troops.