The development of the armed forces will always be among the most important tasks for the Russian state, Vladimir Putin said in a speech dedicated to Defender of the Fatherland Day, also praising the country’s aviation and navy fighting terrorists in Syria. Putin said

"Our armed forces must always be ready to respond quickly and adequately to any potential threats, stop any provocation and aggressive actions," during a gala event dedicated to the upcoming holiday.

 

The authorities in Moscow have defended their right to demolish small businesses they say are illegal and unsafe. Last week they sent bulldozers to flatten hundreds of companies. Supporters of the move say the buildings were ugly and there is a need for more urban space. But angry business owners accuse the authorities of flouting the constitution.

 

A top Russian museum struggled to control record crowds as thousands rushed to see a 19th-century art exhibition, queueing outside in freezing temperatures to see the show before it closes Sunday and even breaking a door. The exhibition of paintings by Valentin Serov, renowned for his society portraits, broke attendance records at Moscow's Tretyakov Gallery. 'This exhibition broke all records with over 400,000 visitors.

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