MOSCOW, February 23. /TASS/. Russia’s President Vladimir Putin congratulated the country’s citizens on Defender of the Fatherland Day.

"Comrades, friends! I congratulate veterans, active military and civilian personnel of the Armed Forces and all who have served in the military on Defender of the Fatherland Day," the President said in his video address.

Putin noted that this holiday is one of the most revered in Russia.

"It has been a national holiday for a long time already and is always celebrated widely throughout the country, in all communities and families, every city and village. And everyone understands the great significance of military service and has enormous respect for our military personnel, for everyone who stands by the Motherland and defends its interests, the security of its citizens, the sovereignty and independence of Russia," the head of the state said.

“In Russia, defenders of the Fatherland enjoy the sincere love of the nation, and devotion to the Fatherland, the sacred duty to protect it and to defend every inch of our land have always been and remain our most important, incontrovertible values,” the head of state stressed.

Putin assured the defenders of the Fatherland that all citizens of Russia believe in their strength and reliability and know that they are always on duty, always safeguarding the interests and security of our Fatherland.

“I wish you good health and new successes for the benefit of the Motherland. And of course, my warmest greetings to your families and friends, those who love you and wait for you, who support you in life and in service. Happy Defender of the Fatherland Day!” the President concluded.