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Russian President Vladimir Putin said conscripts and reservists aren’t taking part in Russia’s military operation in Ukraine and won’t do so, TASS reported.

"I would like to emphasize that conscripts aren’t and won’t be taking part in hostilities, and there will be no additional call-up of reservists from the reserve," he said in a video address to women on the occasion of the International Women’s Day celebrated on March 8, which was posted on the Kremlin website. "Missions are carried out only by professional troops."

The president expressed confidence that "they will be steadfast in providing security and peace for the people of Russia."

Putin addressed mothers, wives, sisters, brides and girlfriends of Russian soldiers and officers "who are now in battle defending Russia during a special military operation."

"I understand how you are worrying about your loved ones and family members," he said. "You can be proud of them just as the whole country is proud of them and is worrying about them together with you."