MOSCOW. Dec 19 (Interfax) - Russia often sees an inappropriate reaction to its steps aimed at defending its national interests, and therefore its armed forces should respond to emerging threats to its national security "in a calm and businesslike manner," Russian President Vladimir Putin said.
"We often face an inappropriate reaction to the protection of our national interests. But we should work calmly and rhythmically, and take a businesslike approach to shortcomings revealed during exercises or surprise inspections," Putin said in opening a Russian Defense Ministry expanded board session on Friday.
"We must find ways to resolve problems facing the country in the defense and security area," he said.
"We need to fully meet the expectations of the Russian people, who rely on the armed forces, the Defense Ministry leadership, the unit commanders, and the armed forces personnel. The appropriate accomplishment of these missions depends on you," he said.
"You see the threats emerging around us," Putin said. "We mentioned this very briefly today, but the specialists sitting in this hall understand everything anyway," he said.