The head of state said this during a meeting on the situation with floods and fires in the country. 

He commented on the possibility of increasing punishment and responsibility in relation to those people who caused fires.

According to him, "you need to look at the realities." The head of state emphasized that "increasing responsibility does not always lead to a change in the situation on the merits."

“As for those who commit such offenses in order to cover up other offenses, for example, illegal logging, there is no doubt here, I completely agree with this,” the president said. 

RT is broadcasting the meeting live.