Russian President Vladimir Putin has urged his country’s security forces to do more in all areas. This includes, for example, the “protection” of occupied territories.
“Today we have a dynamically changing situation in the world, new risks and threats bring increasing demands on Russia’s entire security system,” he said in a video speech on Tuesday evening (local time).
“And that means they (the security agencies) need to step up their efforts, especially in the crucial directions.” The reason for the speech was the so-called Day of the Security Forces of Russia.
“Protection of New Regions”
One of the most important tasks of the security forces is to protect citizens of the “new regions” of Russia. This meant that the parts of Ukraine annexed by Moscow were in violation of international law. Indeed, the situation in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhia regions is difficult, Putin stressed. “But the people who live there, all Russian citizens, are waiting for your protection.”
In order to protect the security, rights and freedoms of these people, according to Putin, Russia “will equip new units with the latest technology and weapons, as well as with experienced personnel”. Russia took and violently occupied large parts of these areas in its war of aggression against Ukraine, which has lasted since February, and is now trying to defend them against Ukrainian counter-attacks.
Resolutely against the secret services
Putin also urged the security forces to take more energetic and decisive measures against the activities of foreign intelligence services. Above all, the utmost determination of military counterintelligence is required here. “The actions of foreign secret services must be clamped down immediately,” the Kremlin chief said. Traitors, saboteurs and spies must be captured.