Putin: Russia facing major terror threat

MOSCOW, Aug. 4 (UPI) -- Russia is facing a major terrorist threat despite the country's recent counter-terrorism efforts, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said Monday.

Putin said while Russia has been focusing on security measures aimed at preventing terrorist acts, the threat of such actions still exists throughout the country, RIA Novosti said.

"Serious blows have been dealt to terrorist leaders and networks. But we should be aware that this threat remains -- it is very serious," the prime minister said.

Putin also told inner cabinet officials increased funding would be allocated to a program aimed at preventing terror attacks such as 2004's hostage crisis in the town of Beslan, which ended with the deaths of 333 hostages, including 186 children.

"A major focus will be placed on prevention of crimes related to terrorism and extremism," Putin said. "The sole priority of this work is to improve security for civilians."