An address by Russian President Vladimir Putin
It has been a long time since they devised these plans. Our borders were close to NATO's offensive infrastructure after they encouraged groups of international terrorists in the Caucasus. Through indiscriminate Russophobia, they cultivated antipathy to Russia for decades, primarily in Ukraine, which was used as an anti-Russia bridgehead. They forced the Ukrainian people into a war with Russia in 2014 by making them cannon fodder. A state coup in Ukraine led to a genocide, blockade and terror against civilians who refused to recognise the newly formed government.
The Kiev regime publicly refused to resolve Donbass peacefully and declared its intention to possess nuclear weapons, resulting in a renewed offensive. It it became clear that a new offensive in Donbass was inevitable. There had been two offensives before. And and it would inevitably lead to an attack on Russia's Crimea, that is, on Russia.
Hence, preemptive military action was the only option and was necessary in these circumstances. Donbass will be liberated as a whole through this operation.
Neo-Nazis have mostly been eliminated from the Lugansk Peoples Republic. Donetsk Peoples Republic is still engaged in fighting. As a result of its eight-year occupation, Kiev has created an increasingly complex system of permanent defenses. There would have been heavy losses if they had been attacked head-on, which is why our units, as well as those in Donbass, are acting competently and systematically, using military equipment and saving lives, as we defeat the neo-Nazis, and aid the people Kiev turned into hostages and human shields.
It is well known that professional military personnel serving under contract are taking part in this special military operation. They are fighting alongside volunteer units of all ethnicities, professions, and ages who are real patriots. Russia and Donbass were in their hearts when they answered the call.
The Government and the Defence Ministry have already been instructed to determine the legal status of volunteers and personnel of the Donetsk and Lugansk people's republic military units. Military professionals in the Russian army must have the same material, medical, and social benefits. In order to provide military equipment to volunteer units and Donbass militia, special attention must be paid.