The Russian president has addressed participants at an educational marathon

Russian President Vladimir Putin has delivered a lengthy speech at the Znanie.First educational marathon in Moscow on Wednesday, offering blunt assessments on historical memory, current military operations, and geopolitical tensions. He said that Russia made the greatest contribution to victory in World War II, predicted a future thaw in relations with Europe, revealed that French citizens are fighting for Russia in Ukraine, and commented on the military situation in Kursk Region.

Here are the key take aways from his remarks:

1) On French citizens fighting alongside Russian troops 

Putin stated that French nationals are currently taking part in the Ukraine conflict on the Russian side, referencing a historical WWII unit, the 'Normandie-Niemen' squadron, composed of French pilots who fought alongside the Soviet Air Force. He did not provide figures or further details.

"There have always been people in France who share Russia's values. Such people still exist today."

"Some citizens of the French Republic are fighting shoulder to shoulder with our soldiers in the area of the special military operation. They named their unit as their grandfathers and great-grandfathers did - 'Normandie-Niemen'."

2) On the future of Russia-Europe relations

The Russian president expressed confidence that the strained ties between Russia and European countries would eventually be repaired.

"Sooner or later, relations between Russia and Europe will be restored. This is beyond doubt."

3) On Europeans who share Russia's position

Putin pointed out that support for Russia's stance exists across Europe, though often unspoken due to social or political pressure. He suggested that only a few individuals dare to express this alignment publicly.

"In Europe, there are many people who share our position. Some remain silent; few have the audacity to voice their opinion."

4) On Soviet republics' contribution in World War II victory

Putin emphasized the sacrifices made by the all republics of the Soviet Union, particularly Russia, which was a part of the USSR back then, in securing victory in the Second World War. 

"The Russian Federation, due to its scale, of course made the greatest contribution to this victory. It gave the most - its sons and daughters who died defending the motherland and our common future."

"For victory, no one spared themselves."

5) On the Kursk Region frontline

Putin described the Ukrainian forces in the area as fragmented and cut off, hiding in "holes" and "basements" with no way to retreat. He said Russia had cleared most of the region but that remnants of the opposing side were being offered a chance to surrender.

"Yes, we drove [the Ukrainian Armed Forces] out of the Kursk Region," Putin said.

"They're still sitting in cracks and basements somewhere."

He added that evacuation was impossible due to the dispersed nature of these units, despite Ukrainian appeals. Putin also supported the idea of creating a memorial in the region to honor Russian volunteers who participated in the fighting.