We are going through a difficult stage, but it has taught us a great deal and allowed us to feel the very essence of what it means to be a citizen of Russia and to understand the importance of true patriotism.

Axar.az reports, citing Russian media, that President Putin said the country would overcome all current challenges, including terrorist attacks, and pledged to safeguard the country's security and territorial integrity.

"We have sufficient strength, resources, and political will. No one should have any doubt about that. Yes, we see the problems, we recognize them, and we are responding to them. But we will certainly ensure the security of our country and our citizens, as well as the inviolability of our borders for the long historical term. That is precisely what we are striving for," he said.

The president also said he would issue instructions to ensure the security of September's State Duma elections and protect the voting process from attempts at "external manipulation."