Putin orders security service to tighten fight against extremism, terrorism

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday ordered the country's Federal Security Service (FSB) to crack down on extremism and terrorism with constant attention and the highest concentration.

"The entire system of work to counter extremism should operate effectively," Putin said at a meeting of the FSB's board, according to a Kremlin press release.

"It is necessary to protect people, young people first of all, from those who try to infect the society with aggression, intolerance, xenophobia and nationalism," he said.

According to the president, the fight against terrorism remains a key task of the FSB.

Putin praised the FSB's work in counterterrorism as attempts of 25 terrorist attacks were foiled last year in the country.

"We must continue to act actively, use offensive tactics and strategy in the fight against terror," he said, adding that Russia is ready to cooperate with any country in this field.