Putin appeals to the citizens of Russia, the personnel of the Russian Armed Forces, and law enforcement officers.
Russian troops are fighting heroically, Putin said.
The entire military machine of the West is directed against Russia, Putin said.
In a televised address, Putin said that he was addressing, among others, those who had been tricked or threatened into the adventure of armed insurgency.
Putin called what is happening treason and betrayal of his country and people.
There is an attempt to organize an insurgency in Russia, Putin said.
Everything that weakens Russia must be put aside, Putin said.
Putin stated that he spoke to the army commanders during the night.
Russia will protect itself from internal betrayal, Putin said.
Putin called the situation with the armed insurgency a stab in the back of the country and the people, an apostasy.
They are trying to push Russia toward defeat and surrender. Actions against the insurgents will be tough.
Russia will respond harshly to betrayal. The insurgents will suffer imminent punishment, Putin said.
The organizers of the insurgency betrayed Russia and will answer for it.
Putin promised to do everything to defend the country.
The situation in Rostov-on-Don during the armed insurgency remains difficult, Putin said.
The civil and military administration in Rostov is virtually blocked.
The army and law enforcers received the necessary orders, Putin said.
Putin called on the rebels to stop participating in criminal actions. Putin urged those involved in the armed insurgency not to make the fatal mistake.
Putin is confident that Russia will overcome everything and become even stronger.
