Transcript of the beginning of the meeting:

Vladimir Putin: Mr Shoigu, what is the situation in the Volgograd and Saratov Regions?

Sergei Shoigu: All fires have are now under control, Mr Putin. As I reported before, we expected strong gusts of wind, had serious problems with short circuits in power transmission lines and with the fanning of small fires in the Volgograd Region.

Consequently we proprose developing an integrated group including the Ministry of Regional Development, the Ministry of Healthcare and Social Development and the Ministry of Civil Defence, Emergencies and Disaster Relief, as was done in the Central and Volga Federal Districts, to prepare the whole programme and oversee payments. I am suggesting doing the same as has previously been done on your executive orders.

Vladimir Putin: The government executive order has already been drawn up and I have I have just signed it, on releasing additional funds: 1 billion roubles to help the Volgograd and Saratov Regions. This money will be given to fire victims in compensation for the property they have lost and to cover housing and infrastructure construction costs. The corresponding commission will be set up, following your proposal. I ask you to get right down to work.

Sergei Shoigu: Yes, sir!