Putin said Russia is standing up for its sovereignty and security in defending its “compatriots” in the Donbas.
Russia has previously claimed it has shifted its war aims to ‘liberating’ the Russian-speaking east of Ukraine where it alleges Kyiv is committing genodice.
“Our society has compassion, mutual support and solidarity.”
Putin said factory staff are working “in three shifts, round the clock” to continue supplying troops on the front line as support for the war effort remains high “despite all the trials, all the bitterness of losses…”
“Today, when our homeland is defending its sovereignty and security and protecting the lives of our fellow countrymen in Donbas and Novorossiya (regions of Ukraine that Russia claims to have annexed), the decisive role in this righteous struggle belongs to our citizens, our unity, devotion to our native country and responsibility for its fate,” he said.
“These qualities were clearly and unambiguously manifested at the very beginning of the special military operation, when it was supported by the absolute majority of the Russian people. Despite all the trials and bitterness of losses, people are adamant in this choice.”
“We did not start this war in Donbas. As I have said many times, we will do everything to end it, to eradicate Nazism. To fulfill all the tasks of the special military operation. To protect the sovereignty and security of our citizens.”
