MOSCOW, July 27. /TASS/. Russia is going through a defining moment in its history, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at a meeting with lawmakers marking the end of the State Duma’s eighth convocation.

"This historical period is not easy. This is clear not only to members of the State Duma and the Russian government, government officials and regional heads. Every Russian citizen understands that," he said.

At the same time, lawmakers represent their voters, the people of Russia, Putin added.

"Thank you for your work," Putin said, addressing the parliament members and calling them a "combat unit" of the people.