Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Russian soldiers on their "success and victories" in Ukraine's Luhansk region.

On Monday, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu reported to Putin that troops have successfully carried out an operation to "liberate" the region.

Shoigu said the operation ended with the capturing of Lysychansk, one of Luhansk's largest cities.

Putin responded that the military units that took part "should rest and build up their combat capabilities."

He also said other units in the east and west "must carry out their tasks according to the previously approved plans."

Putin added that he hopes further events will unfold just as they did in Luhansk.