[HIGHLIGHTS] Putin expressed condolences on the death of Nikolai Ryzhkov

Putin expressed condolences on the death of Nikolai Ryzhkov. Chairman of the Russian Federation Council Valentina Matvienko announced the death on February 28.

As the governor of the Belgorod region Vyacheslav Gladkov noted, his passing was an irreparable loss for the country. The head of theRussian Ministry of Defense, Sergei Shoigu, also expressed condolences over the death. Putin emphasized thatRyzhkov always remained true to his ideals and principles and put the interests of the country and people above all.