Moscow police detain people laying flowers at monument

STORY: The human rights group said dozens of people were detained by police in Russia for actions to commemorate the anniversary.

Russian authorities have remained largely silent during the anniversary, which Ukraine has observed with a ceremony to remember soldiers and civilians who have been killed.

Last year, police detained more than 4,300 people at Russia-wide protests against the operation, according to OVD-Info.

Russia has introduced tough new laws providing for fines or jail sentences for those who discredit its army or criticize the conflict.