The president awarded honors to distinguished servicemen in a ceremony marking Defender of the Fatherland Day

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday praised the country's military and its performance in the special military operation against Ukraine, stating that they have been fighting for "justice" and Russia's future.

The president made the remarks during a ceremony to celebrate Defender of the Fatherland Day, when he hosted distinguished soldiers in the Kremlin and awarded them with state honors, namely the country's top Gold Star medal.

"Participants of the special military operation are true to the glorious legacy of our fathers, grandfathers, great-grandfathers. Displaying courage, they - you stand guard over Russia, bravely fighting for truth and justice, for peace, the future of our people," Putin said.

"Thanks to your efforts, we are achieving our goals. The country is proud of you, your exploits, and your contribution to the defense of the Fatherland. Thank you for your valor, dedication, loyalty to duty and love for the Fatherland," he added.

Junior Sergeant Andrey Grigoryev was among the distinguished soldiers awarded on Sunday. Grigoryev got into the limelight after live-action footage showing him defeating a Ukrainian serviceman in a knife battle went viral. The video, taken from the body camera of the fallen Ukrainian soldier, showed an intense close-quarter battle that escalated into a knife fight near the village of Trudovoye in Russia's Donetsk People's Republic last autumn.

In early January, Putin awarded Grigoryev the title 'Hero of Russia' for the "bravery and heroism" he demonstrated in combat. The country's highest honorary title is accompanied by the Gold Star medal that identifies its recipients.

Defender of the Fatherland Day is marked annually on February 23. The holiday has its roots in the Soviet era and originally marked the founding of the Red Army. While it celebrates the country's armed forces, the day is also popularly regarded as "men's day," analogous to International Women's Day on March 8.