Goals of "SMO" will be achieved. Russia will "liberate its historical lands," - Putin. VIDEO

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has stated that he will continue the war against Ukraine.

He made this statement during a meeting of the Russian Defence Ministry's board, according to Censor.NET, citing Russian media reports.

What did Putin say?

"The goals of the 'special military operation' will definitely be achieved. We would prefer to do this and eliminate the root causes of the conflict through diplomacy.

If the opposing side and their foreign patrons refuse to engage in substantive talks, Russia will achieve the liberation of its historical lands by military means," the dictator said.

According to Putin, Russia "will consistently pursue the task of expanding the security buffer zone."