MOSCOW, December 19. /TASS/. The combat readiness of the Russian army is currently the highest in the world, President Vladimir Putin stated during his combined Direct Line Q&A session and year-end press conference.

"We are strengthening our defense capabilities. I can confidently say that the combat readiness of our armed forces is currently the highest in the world," the Russian leader stated.

Putin noted that the same applies to Russia's defense industry. "We are increasing production of everything necessary for our army and navy. We are doing this confidently and at a rapid pace, which is not the case for our adversaries," he said.

Putin added that the Russian army is successfully advancing on the frontline, largely due to the advanced equipment it has at its disposal, despite the fact that nearly all NATO countries are engaged in conflict with Russia.