Russian President Vladimir Putin toasted his naval forces with champagne as he celebrated Navy Day in St Petersburg, offering a “bottom of my heart” declaration to military sailors whom he described as a “special caste”.
The Russian leader was photographed throughout Sunday’s commemorative events inspecting troops and addressing personnel, standing in a stark black suit against a sea of pristine white naval uniforms. In one striking visual, Putin is seen up close clutching a glass of champagne . . . while later downing it.
He was also pictured surrounded by senior naval officers and decorated seamen in dress uniforms, holding his drink while conversing seemingly intimately with the group. During his official meeting with the personnel, according to a transcript released by the Kremlin, Putin acknowledged the unique dangers faced by the Russian Navy.