President Vladimir Putin is delivering his annual report to the Federal Assembly, the two chambers of the Russian Parliament, on Thursday. Traditionally, such addresses tend to focus on domestic issues.
03 December 2015
Some countries in the Middle East and North Africa, “which used to be stable and relatively prosperous” – Iraq, Libya, Syria – “have turned into zones of chaos and anarchy that pose a threat to the entire world,” Putin said.
“We know why it happened. We know who wanted to oust unwanted regimes, and rudely impose their own rules. They triggered hostilities, destroyed statehoods, set people against each other and simply washed their hands [of the situation] – giving way to radicals, extremists and terrorists.”
“Russia has long been at the forefront of the fight against terrorism. This is a fight for freedom, truth and justice, for the lives of people and the future of all civilization,” said Putin.
Russia can provide the global market with ecologically-clean food, said Vladimir Putin.
We need to support people with low income and people with special needs, Putin said.
There are citizens of Russia and from former CIS member among Islamic State militants, Putin said.
"They are getting money, weapons, gathering strength. If they get stronger, winning there, they will inevitably come here to sow fear and hatred, blast, kill and torture people," he added.
Speaking about Turkey and Islamic State militants, Putin said that Russia will never forget Turkey helping terrorists. “We have always considered betrayal a very shameful thing,” he added.
We do not equal current Turkish leadership and Turkish nation, he said.
We need to create a common anti-terrorist front which will be operating under international law and under the auspices of UN, according to Putin.
Russia has shown its leadership and complete responsibility while fighting international terrorism, said the Russian president.
It is impossible to battle terrorism with only one country, especially when the borders are open, said Putin.
Vladimir Putin started his speech by thanking all Russian servicemen battling international terrorism.
"Today here in the St George’s Hall, a historic hall of Russian military glory, we have combat pilots and representatives of the Armed Forces who are taking part in the anti-terrorist operation in Syria."