Rail leading to the concentration camp Auschwitz II. Photo: Pimke.

Israel and the global community marked the 68th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II on Thursday with parades, festivals and somber memorial services.

Hundreds of people, including war veterans who fought against Germany alongside the Allied troops, marched in Jerusalem. Those who fought in Russia’s Red Army donned their military decorations. Another ceremony marking the Allied victory was held at the Yad Vashem museum Jerusalem.

Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat spoke directly to Israel’s youth, saying, “I call on you, young people standing here today: Look toward these fighters, look into their eyes and know that they are role models.”

In Russia, President Vladimir Putin said, “We will do everything we can to ensure that no one ever dares threaten our children, our homes and our land.”

A ceremony was also held at the Auschwitz concentration camp with children who immigrated to Israel from former Soviet Union countries.