A message from the Russian President
This plan was devised long ago. By encouraging international terrorist groups in the Caucasus, NATO moved its offensive infrastructure close to our borders. Russophobia was used indiscriminately, including nurturing hatred of Russia for decades, specifically in Ukraine, intended as a bridgehead against the Russians. As a result, they turned the Ukrainian people into cannon fodder and pushed them into a war with Russia. Military power was used against civilians, resulting in genocide, blockades, and terror against those who refused to recognize the government that was created in Ukraine after a coup.
In response to Kiev's public refusal to settle the Donbass issue peacefully and the fact that the Kiev regime was announcing nuclear weapons possession, it became clear that a new offensive in Donbass was inevitable, just like the two previous ones. followed by an attack on Crimea, that is, on Russia.
As a result, a preemptive military operation was essential and the only option available. It remains the main objective of this operation to liberate the whole of Donbass.
Neo-Nazis have almost completely been driven out of the Lugansk Peoples Republic. Donetsk Peoples Republic is still engaged in fighting. During the Kiev occupation regime's eight-year reign, permanent defences were built in layers. There would have been heavy losses if they had been attacked head-on, which is why our units, in addition to the Donbass forces, are acting competently and systematically, using military equipment and saving lives, trying to cleanse cities and towns of 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. Along with them are volunteer units made up of people of different ethnicities, professions, and ages. In defense of Russia and Donbass, they answered the call of their hearts.
In this regard, I have already instructed the Government and the Defence Ministry to determine the legal status of volunteers and personnel of Donetsk and Lugansk military units. All material, medical, and social benefits must be the same as those enjoyed by military professionals of the Russian army. Volunteer units and Donbass peoples militia need access to military and other equipment.