Putin Has More Tricks Up His Sleeve in Combating Terrorism

by Stephen Lendman

No one paying attention to his involvement in Syria against ISIS and other terrorist groups needs convincing about Russia's formidable military capability.

On Saturday, addressing a reception to mark Security Agency Worker's Day, he said in less than so many words, you ain't seen nothin yet. More on this below.

He thanked and expressed admiration for attending professionals - for "reliably protecting Russia's sovereignty and national integrity and the lives of our citizens, who are ready to perform the most complicated, responsible and dangerous assignments."

"These have always been the qualities that distinguished employees of Russia's security services. On this day, we invariably remember the many generations of our predecessors who served our Motherland with honor."

He called today's geopolitical situation "complicated" - notably in the Middle East and other troubled areas. "(T)errorists declared war on civilization," he said.

"(T)heir actions pose a direct threat to" Russia - why its forces "are fighting militants at the forward defense lines, destroying their infrastructure, their camps and bases in Syria."

He stressed the importance of rigorous efforts to expose their plans, act aggressively against them, and prevent their getting a foothold in Russia - without explaining that's precisely what Washington has in mind, including at least some of its partners in high crimes.

"Our counterintelligence service bears a great responsibility," he stressed. "This year they have exposed 320 foreign special services employees, agents and accessories." 

"We can see that the intelligence services of a number of countries are building up their 'work on Russia,' as we say. I am certain that our security service officers are prepared to meet this challenge."

He noted the effectiveness of Russia's anti-terrorist aerial campaign in Syria, adding: "We are not using everything we have there" or can bring to the table. "We have additional means, and we will use them if necessary" in an all-out effort to eliminate a common scourge.

Earlier, Putin made it very clear Russia intends continuing its war on terrorism until its objectives are accomplished - no matter how long it takes.

Stephen Lendman lives in Chicago. He can be reached at lendmanstephen@sbcglobal.net. 

His new book as editor and contributor is titled "Flashpoint in Ukraine: US Drive for Hegemony Risks WW III."

http://www.claritypress.com/LendmanIII.html

Visit his blog site at sjlendman.blogspot.com. 

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