(VOVworld) - President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday called for a boost in Russia's defense capability to keep the nation strong among surging tensions with the United States. 

President Putin said Russia needs to strengthen its security and defense capability and assert its position on the world stage (AFP/VNA)

Addressing the new session of the State Duma, Putin said Russia needs to strengthen its security and defense capability and assert its position on the world stage. Putin’s speech was focused on the need to keep Russia "strong". He called on Russian people to unite and coordinate their efforts, to uphold Russia's supreme historical right - to be strong.

Russia is facing the longest economic crisis of Putin's 16-year rule. Washington has unilaterally suspended talks with Moscow on Syria. The Russian Foreign Ministry said it was disappointed by the decision and asked Washington to reconsider it.