Says Russia did everything possible to talk U.S. out of leaving the ABM treaty. After the U.S. left, Russia continued to try to work with the U.S. to find a compromise. "All our suggestions were rejected," Putin says.
Criticizes U.S. for leaving the ABM treaty, which he says was a cornerstone of international security.
Russia now has 384,000 contract soldiers.
Over 17 years, Russia has brought into military use more than 300 new systems.
Turns to security matters. Syrian operation demonstrated the huge potential of the Russian military.
Says that despite all the talk about corruption, the overwhelming majority of state officials are honest and honorable people.
Says government services should also be accessible online, which will increase transparency and reduce corruption.