Russian govt members stayed at work, acted in effective, well-coordinated manner amid June 24 events - Mishustin

MOSCOW. June 26 (Interfax) - All members of the Russian government stayed at work on the day of the attempted mutiny and acted in an effective and well-coordinated manner to maintain stability and to protect the population, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said.

"The country encountered another challenge over these days. An attempt was made to destabilize the domestic situation in Russia. Government members stayed at work, acted in an effective and well-coordinated manner, under the supervision of the president, and maintained stability at every level to prevent an exacerbation of the situation and to protect the population from every possible threat arising," Mishustin said at a meeting with Russian deputy prime ministers on Monday.

"Under the circumstances, the primary task is to ensure the sovereignty and independence of our country and the security and wellbeing of citizens," he said.

"To this end, the consolidation of entire society is of paramount significance. We need to act together as one team and maintain the unity of all forces, while rallying around the president and making joint, well considered decisions so that we can effectively achieve the targets set by the head of state," Mishustin said.

Russia is going through an important period in its history, Mishustin added. "Practically the entire military, economic and information machine of the West has turned against us. In fact, we are fighting for the right to choose our own path based on national interests for the benefit of our people," he said.

"I would like to thank you for your work. Please keep doing everything necessary to ensure smooth operation of the industries you oversee and to fulfill presidential orders. All decisions must be coordinated and well considered. Our main priority for today is the wellbeing of our citizens," Mishustin said.