MOSCOW, Russia – Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has stated that the special military operation in Ukraine would continue until the objectives are met. "The Russian armed forces will continue the special military operation until the planned objectives are met," Shoigu said during a conference call, Reports ‘Russian Times.

The West's delivery of lethal weapons to Ukraine is reckless,  Shoigu said. "We view the West's approach, which supplies Ukraine with lethal weaponry, to be irresponsible," Shoigu added.

He stated that the unregulated availability of firearms to the general public and mercenaries "only aggravates the situation" and "may constitute a threat to Europeans themselves in the future." The major duties of the first stage of the special operation in Ukraine have been completed, said Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.

"In general, the first stage of the operation's key duties have been completed. The combat capability of the Ukrainian armed forces has been severely diminished, allowing the major focus and efforts to be directed toward attaining the main aim - the liberation of Donbass "he stated

The Ukrainian Armed Forces have incurred severe damage, Shoigu said. "The battle for air superiority has been won. The air force and air defence system were almost completely destroyed... The country's naval forces were disbanded. All formations of the ground and airborne assault troops incurred significant losses " the Minister of Defense said.

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