Putin: Interc mount rocket “Sarma” will be functional by year's end

“We are proud that during the special military operation, our fighters act courageously, professionally, as true heroes”, Putin said during a meeting with students of the Military Academy, who were broadcast on the Russian state television.

Referring to sanctions imposed by the West following the intervention in Ukraine, he said “would be exceeded”.

And “at the time when we have to face new threats and risks, we will continue to develop and strengthen our armed forces”, he said, promising that the new interconctinent missiles “Sarma” will be functional by year's end.

There is no doubt that we will be stronger”, Putin added.

Ballistic rocket “Sarma” was tested in April. This weapon, according to the Russian Defence Ministry, is capable of using “in any existing or future missile defence system”, and Putin himself had announced that he would provide security guarantees to Russia “against current threats” and “to make those who make threatening comments” reflect.

On February 24th, Putin sent military troops to neighbouring Ukraine for demilitarized” and “de-notified” country.

Putin has often said that the Russian economy has succeeded in meeting unprecedented sanctions imposed by the West.