MOSCOW. Dec 15 (Interfax) - Any interference in Russia's internal affairs during the presidential campaign will be curbed resolutely, President Vladimir Putin said.
"There's a presidential campaign ahead, and I believe I must highlight several key points. Well, firstly, everything must be taking place on a competitive basis and in full compliance with the Russian Federation's law," Putin said at a meeting with the State Duma's leading members and leaders of its factions.
"Any interference in Russia's internal affairs will be curbed, and it will be curbed toughly, too, in line with Russian laws," he said.
Freedom of the peoples inhabiting Russia, its sovereignty, and their right to choose their future will be protected, Putin said. "It is precisely the people, and only the people of Russia, who are the only source of power in our country," Putin said.
All political parties and factions will determine their position during the upcoming election campaign, Putin said. "That said, I believe the top priority for everyone is to understand fundamental national interests and their responsibility to the people, to our country and its future," he said.
Putin reiterated that both the election campaign and the voting process must strictly comply with constitutional democratic procedures and be transparent, legitimate, and fair.