Putin Links Defense Decisions To Economy

Vladimir Putin stated that the state of the Russian economy is essential for fulfilling defense and security tasks. He said the necessity of protecting the interests of domestic entrepreneurs. Putin noted that business currently constitutes a portion of the Russian economy. The Russian leader asserted that economic realization is the foundation for achieving national security objectives. He remarked that the economy is operating under serious external challenges. He noted that international terrorist structures continue subversive activities regarding election security. This follows a report from April 23 regarding internet disruptions in major cities.