Syrian president, Bashar Al-Assad, sent a congratulatory cable to Russian president, Vladimir Putin, on Tuesday, to commemorate the 71st anniversary of Russia’s victory over Nazi Germany.

While Nazi Germany did not surrender to the Allied Forces until May 8th, the fighting halted on May 3rd when the Russian Army (then Soviet Army) captured Berlin.

President Assad thanked the Russian people for their sacrifices and bravery during World War II; and for their much needed assistance in Syria.