Putin says Russian troops have accelerated offensive operations

MOSCOW, August 22. /TASS/. Russian troops have accelerated their offensive operations and continue to successfully attain the goals of the special military operation, Russian President Vladimir Putin told Vesti journalist Pavel Zarubin in an interview.

"The adversary’s actions have had no effect on the situation on the battlefield. Moreover, not only our troops continue to advance in all directions, they have also accelerated the pace of their offensive operations," Putin said.

In his words, the Russian armed forces keep successfully coping with their tasks until the goals of the special military operation are achieved.

"Of course, at the same time, our goal is to improve the air defense network, to boost its capabilities," the Russian leader continued.

Commenting on Ukraine’s attacks on civilian targets in Russia, the president said that along with improving its air defense, Russia should also enhance coordination between its security agencies and civilian authorities, and engage state enterprises and private companies into the effort.