Putin says elections will continue at different levels across Russia

Russian leader Vladimir Putin says at the ruling United Russia party's congress in Moscow that elections will continue to be held at different levels throughout the territory of the country "even in the most difficult conditions."

The party gathered Saturday for finalising its programme for the parliamentary elections on September 20th.

He says Russia will not retreat from the principles of democracy and praised veterans fought in Ukraine who are among United Russia's candidates.

He stresses the upcoming elections will confirm the stability of the state and its ability to withstand external threats.