Putin Says 313 Terrorists 'Eliminated' In Recent Months

A Russian soldier photographs the bodies of four alleged militants killed in clashes in Daghestan. (file photo)

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said security operations "in recent months" have killed 313 "terrorists" who refused to surrender, including 43 leaders of terrorist groups.

The Russian president also said 479 "bandits" have been apprehended in those operations but provided no further details.

Putin speaking at a meeting with security chiefs said Russia's security agencies have been more effective in the last several years.

But he exhorted those agencies to battle terrorists relentlessly and "audaciously."

Putin added security forces should be cautious and try not to inflict civilian casualties during operations.

He said he wanted "maximum results" and ordered ministries and departments to better coordinate their actions.

Based on reporting IFX and ITAR-TASS