Putin addresses Russians on National Flag Day

President Vladimir Putin said Russia was firm in its international pursuit of the country's interests as it protected its traditional patriotic values.

Speaking in a video address on National Flag Day, Putin said Russia was a "powerful, independent world power," adding "we are firm in pursuing on the international arena only those policies that meet the fundamental interests of the motherland."

He added that starting from September 1st; a flag raising ceremony will be held every week in all schools across the country, "to educate the younger generation about the values of patriotism, citizenship, and responsibility for the future of the motherland."