Putin Admits 'Certain Problems' In Military Approach To Ukraine; Urges Defense Ministry To 'Be Attentive'

President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged Russia's shortcomings in its war with Ukraine, promising to give its army everything it needs after reports highlighted the army's lack of basic resources.

"We have no funding restrictions. The country and the government are providing everything that the army asks for," Putin said in a speech at the Ministry of Defense in Moscow on Wednesday, shortly after it marked its 300th day of war with Ukraine.

He instructed officers to be more attentive to the soldiers' basic needs such as medical kits, food, dry rations, uniforms, footwear, protective helmets and bulletproof vests.

The Russian president also urged the military to take into account constructive criticisms from civilians as the conflict could turn into a long-term process.

"I ask the Ministry of Defence to be attentive to all civilian initiatives, including taking into account criticism and responding correctly, in a timely manner," Putin said, as quoted by Reuters.

"It is clear that the reaction of people who see problems -- and there are always problems in such major, complex work -- can be emotional, but we need to hear those who do not hush up the existing problems, but strive to contribute to their solution."

Putin admitted that the partial mobilization of 300,000 reservists did not go as smoothly as planned after it drew strong criticism from Kremlin allies.

Military commissariats were enlisting physically unfit men, while new recruits were lacking basic equipment such as sleeping bags and winter clothing.

Currently, half of the 300,000 mobilized soldiers were stationed away from the battlefield, according to Putin.

Following reports of ongoing military losses in Ukraine, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has proposed raising the age range for mandatory Russian military service from 18-27 to 21-30.

Shoigu also announced plans to establish bases in two Ukrainian port cities, Berdyansk and Mariupol, that were seized during Russia's offensive.