Stunning photos show Russian servicemen and women rehearsing for the Victory Day Parade.
The annual ceremony, held in Russia and other former Soviet countries on May 9, will mark the 73rd anniversary of Nazi Germany's defeat in the Second World War - known as the Great Patriotic War in Russia.
Planes, jets, helicopters, tanks and artillery vehicles make their way through Red Square in Moscow and Palace Square in St. Petersburg for the country's most important national holiday.
And for the last week, the country's armed forces have been gearing up for the much-anticipated display of patriotism and military might with flamboyant rehearsals in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Female military personnel march proudly through Red Square during rehearsals for the annual Victory Day Parade, held on May 9 in Russia and other former Soviet countries
Russian soldiers, wearing striking red and black military uniform, attend the dress rehearsal in Moscow as the country gears up for their most important national holiday
Spectators watch armed soldiers riding enormous tanks through Palace Square in St. Petersburg during a rehearsal. Many can be seen holding up their phones on selfie sticks to capture the spectacular display
Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, heavily decorated in medals, salutes during a dress rehearsal in Moscow
Russian servicemen, wearing smart green uniform and white gloves, march through Red Square during a Victory Day Parade rehearsal
Russian soldiers receive instructions during a rehearsal march in Moscow as the country gets ready for the spectacular display of patriotism
Russian soldiers take a well-deserved break while taking part in rehearsals for the show of military might in Moscow on May 9
Female officers march through Red Square in Russia in regimented rows as the country prepares for Victory Day Parade
Scores of Russian special forces officers put on a stunning display of discipline and strength in Red Square during a rehearsal
