Russia will not succumb to external pressure: Vladimir Putin

Moscow, Feb 21: President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia will never yield to any external pressure.

In a reception to mark the upcoming Defender of the Fatherland Day, Putin shared his confidence in Russia's military to protect the country from outside threats, Xinhua reported Saturday. The Defender of the Fatherland Day is a national holiday celebrated Feb 23 in honour of Russian servicemen.

"No one should have any illusions that it could achieve military supremacy over Russia or to put pressure on us in any form," Putin said on Friday.

"Russia will always have an adequate response to any such reckless action."

Russian soldiers "are ready to act decisively, with precision, professionalism and courage, to carry out even the most difficult missions," he said, adding that the country's armed forces are equipped with the most modern technology.

His remarks came as Russia's relationship with the West has seemed to hit its lowest point due to the ongoing crisis in eastern Ukraine.

The West has been criticising Russia for its intervention in Ukraine, allegations Moscow has continued to deny.

The US and the European Union have imposed several sanctions against Moscow, which has cost the Russian economy heavily.

IANS