MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that traitors will be wiped out. Putin said that those who agitate against the war and help the United States and other countries are deceiving Russia and he was referring to them. He said that the Russians would be able to identify traitors and patriots and would bite and spit out those who cheat.

The country can only be strengthened by self-purification, which is essential for the unity and co-operation of the country. Such challenges therefore needed to be taken up. Destroying Russia is the goal of Western nations. Putin issued this warning as he addressed the nation.

Putin's statement came after footage of an anti-war rally was aired on a Russian TV channel. There have been numerous protests against the war inside and outside Russia. Those who do so are charged with treason. Russia has arrested hundreds of protesters.