France, April 16 -- Russia but not President Vladimir Putin will be invited to the French ceremony marking 80 years since the World War II D-Day landings in Normandy, organisers said Tuesday.

A host of world leaders,including US President Joe Biden, are expected to attend the 6 June commemoration marking the 80th anniversary of the 1944 Normandy landings.

"In view of the circumstances, President Putin will not be invited to take part," the Liberation Mission organising committee said, referring to Russia's "war of aggression" in Ukraine.

"Russia will however be invited ... to honour the importance of the commitment and sacrifices of the Soviet people, as well as its contribution to the 1945 victory."

A representative of the Russian em...