Chinese President Xi Jinping?sits next to Russian President Putin at Victory Day parade in Red Square.[Photo/screen shot from Xinhua]

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday that China was the main battlefield in Asian countries' resistance against militarism in WWII, sacrificing millions of lives.

Putin made the remarks in a speech delivered at the start of a grand military parade held in Red Square to mark the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Great Patriotic War, Russia's term for WWII.

Chinese servicemen take part in Russian Victory Day parade for first time on May 8, 2015. [Photo/CFP]

The Russian president said the May 8 commemoration is meant to build a peaceful and tranquil future based on equality and non-alignment among countries.

The parade marks the surrender of Nazi Germany and the Red Army's key role in the defeat.

Victory Day is Russia's most important secular holiday, both commemorating the Soviet Union's huge suffering in the war and highlighting Russia's portrayal of itself as a force for peace and security.

Russian servicemen drive BTR-82A armoured personnel carriers (APC) during the Victory Day parade at Red Square in Moscow. [Photo/Agencies]

Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the commemorative event among more than other 20 leaders of nations and international organizations.

China's guards of honor, consisting of 102 members, joined the parade and marched through the Red Square.

It is the first time for Chinese soldiers to participate in Russian Victory Day parades.