MOSCOW, September 30. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has thanked the residents of new regions for their resilience, asserting that the country can overcome all difficulties by becoming stronger.

"I would like to address the residents of the Donetsk People’s Republic, Lugansk People’s Republic, and the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions specifically. Thank you for preserving and passing on your love for the Fatherland to your children despite all the trials. Thanks to you, your fortitude and determination, Russia has become even stronger. We are one people, and together we can overcome anything and meet any challenge," he said in a video address on the occasion of the Day of Reunification of the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, and the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions with Russia.

According to Putin, the recent elections in the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics and the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions were an important step in strengthening the common state and the political and legal space. "Just like a year ago during the historic referendums, people once again expressed and reaffirmed their desire to be with Russia, and supported their fellow citizens who earned the people’s trust through hard work and real achievements," the Russian leader stressed.