Russian President Vladimir Putin commented on the ongoing crackdown on dissent in Russia, saying that "there must be a certain attitude toward people who are causing harm inside the country." During a press conference following the Africa-Russia summit in St. Petersburg on July 29, Putin noted that Russia "is in an armed conflict with a neighbor" when a journalist asked if it was "normal for people to be arrested for things they have written or said." Putin also rejected calls for a cease-fire in Ukraine, saying Russian forces could not stop responding "when we are being attacked." To read the original story by RFE/RL’s Russian Service, click here.
Putin Says 'Armed Conflict' With Ukraine Justifies Crackdown On Dissent
Russian President Vladimir Putin addresses a press conference following the Russia-Africa summit in St. Petersburg on July 29.