Putin marks 73rd birthday among military officers

Russian President Vladimir Putin spent his 73rd birthday in the company of military officers for the first time, visiting the Peter and Paul Cathedral in St. Petersburg — the burial place of Russian emperors — before holding a meeting on the battlefield situation.

Putin said the location was symbolic: “This is the resting place of those who created modern Russia. I think you’ll find it meaningful.”

The cathedral, built by Peter the Great, has served as the traditional burial site for Russian monarchs since the founding of the city.

Following the visit, Putin held a briefing with army commanders, appearing on Kremlin footage against the backdrop of Peter the Great’s portrait. He said the decisions made in 2022 were “right and timely” and claimed that “strategic initiative remains with the Russian forces.”

Putin asserted that Russian troops had “liberated” 5,000 square kilometers and 212 settlements in 2025 — figures roughly 1.5 times higher than those reported by Ukrainian sources.

It was the first time Putin celebrated his birthday surrounded by military personnel.