Putin thanks special forces for fulfilling duty in Ukraine

Putin said the soldiers had been tasked with providing assistance to the “people's republics of Donbas” - referring to two rebel-held areas in eastern Ukraine that Russia recognised as independent states ahead of its invasion, CNN reports.

"I want to thank the command, the personnel of the special operations forces, veterans of the special forces units for their loyalty to the oath, for their impeccable service in the name of the people of Russia and our great motherland,” he said.

He ended the message saying: “I wish good luck, success and all the best to you and your loved ones.”

The address was given to mark Russia's special forces day, which has been held on 27 February since 2015.

ASH