Russia is ready for an open and honest dialogue in international affairs, and ensuring its defense capability remains the most important task for the state, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a video message on the occasion of Defender of the Fatherland Day.
"Ensuring that our country can defend itself remains a primary responsibility of government, and the Armed Forces serve as a reliable guarantee of our national security, the peaceful and orderly lives of our people and Russia’s stable and steady development," he noted.
"We can see the difficult international situation and the threats posed by current challenges, such as the erosion of the arms control system and NATO’s military activities," said the head of the Russian state. -"Russia's appeals to building a system of equal and indivisible security, which would reliably protect all countries, remain unanswered.
Our country is always open for a direct and honest dialogue and in search of diplomatic solutions to the most complicated problems, but I repeat: the interests of Russia and security of our citizens are unconditional for us," said Putin. - And yet, Russia’s appeals to build a system of equal and indivisible security that would reliably defend all countries, remain unanswered".
The president recalled that a lot has been done over the previous years to carry out the quality modernization of the Armed Forces. They have gained mobility and acquired new combat experience. During the operation in Syria, they proved in practice that they are capable of accomplishing the most difficult tasks. The training and coordination of army units and formations have greatly improved. This is clearly shown by snap drills, maneuvers and regular large-scale military exercises, including jointly with our allies, as well as responsible peacekeeping operations.
"We have weapons that are second to none in the world and they are operational. We will continue to develop promising weapon systems, including hypersonic weapons and those based on new physical principles, and expand the use of advanced digital technology and elements of artificial intelligence," the president said. According to him "complexes like these are weapons of the future, which can boost the potential" of the Armed Forces several-fold.
Safety of citizens
Putin has confidence in the bravery and reliability of the Russian military and the fact that they will stand up for the national interests of the country and guard the peace of its people.
"Friends! As Supreme Commander-in-Chief, I have confidence in you, Russian soldiers and officers, in your high professionalism, bravery and reliability, that you will guard the peace of our people, and stand up for the national interests of our great country," Putin said.
In his speech, Putin paid special attention to the personal qualities of servicemen. He pointed out that even the most advanced equipment is operated by people. "It is very important that they have the latest knowledge and excellent training; however, personal qualities of Russian soldiers, such as patriotism, endurance, selflessness and mutual assistance have always – at all times – been of utmost importance," the president pointed out.
He continued, "The role of a commander in developing these features is indispensable. Our officers are not only the core of our Army and Navy – these people are sincerely devoted to Russia and their military duty," Putin stressed.
The head of state thanked them for their faithful and honest service to the homeland and for the responsible training of personnel. "For fulfilling your duties conscientiously and with ultimate dedication, and holding sacred the spirit and character of the national military school," he added.
In conclusion, the president heartily congratulated the soldiers and officers on the holiday, wishing them health and success in service, and conveyed his best wishes to their families, relatives
and loved ones.
Feat of the people
The feat of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War is "a summit of human history", Putin said.
"On this day, we have sincere, heart-felt words of gratitude for the Great Patriotic War veterans. We will always remember that you, the valiant generation of victors, crushed Nazism and saved our country and the entire world from this barbaric, merciless force. Your feat is a summit of human history, a great example for all those who are serving today in the Army and the Navy," he said.
Putin noted that "patriotism and the unity of our nation, the exploits of its devoted sons and daughters" have always been the foundation of the martial history of Russia. "We are proud of the many generations of its defender <...> all those who brought glory to our Fatherland according to the great traditions of our ancestors," stressed the president.
Every year on February 23 Russia celebrates the Day of Military Glory of Russia - the Day of Defender of the Fatherland. It was established by the federal law "On Days of Military Glory (Victory Days) of Russia," signed by the then President Boris Yeltsin on March 13, 1995 (with subsequent changes).
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Photo: official website of President of the RF
Based on materials of TASS