Putin orders inspection into needs of Russian army

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin instructed the government on Tuesday to determine and report the needs of the country's military.

The effort should include not just material equipment, but social needs as well, such as help to soldiers' relatives, Putin said, speaking at the first meeting of a government coordination council on the needs of the Russian Armed Forces.

He also ordered a revision of the military's administrative system to help it solve issues of supplies more quickly and counteract economic sanctions.

"By today, the Coordination Council should have formulated tasks for some sectors. There are no such tasks yet, but I have no doubt that they will arrive in the near future," said Putin.

The Russian leader placed particular emphasis on the need to make comfortable, modern, and effective military uniforms and equipment.

Existing models and designs can be changed, if needed, to respond to the realities on the ground, he said, adding that producers should seek feedback from soldiers serving in Russia's war in Ukraine and adapt uniforms accordingly.

"New production facilities have to appear. It's necessary to increase competition to get better quality in all directions," he said.

Putin also noted that the security situation in Russia had changed and that law enforcement in the country was facing serious challenges.

Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin also spoke at the council, saying that a preliminary study showed the necessity to boost production of clothes and body armor.

The government has already allocated funds to meet these needs.

Amid the war in Ukraine that began on Feb. 24, Ukrainian forces have in recent weeks advanced in a counteroffensive, while Moscow has called up more reservists and incorporated four Ukrainian regions after what the West denounced as "sham" referendums.