Russian president pays homage to Unknown Soldier

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday laid a wreath at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier to mark the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany's invasion of Russia during the Second World War.

"We will always be grateful to the winners who stepped into immortality, to those who gave life and peace to future generations," Putin said during a speech after laying a floral tribute at the tomb.

Putin was joined at the ceremony near the Kremlin walls by WWII veterans.

IMAGE: AP