Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin warned that tough measures will be taken against irresponsible private investors in the country's electricity sector, the government said in a statement late Wednesday.
"Clearly, an investor wants to make the highest profit as fast as possible," Putin said, adding that those who cause problems and undermine public trust "by stuffing their stomachs with short-term profits" will face a corresponding reaction.
"I will take everything from their guts and give away to the poor. Tell that to all interested persons, so that there are no illusions," Putin said.
Putin stressed the importance of energy security for the country, promising further support to those companies which "act responsibly."
After Russia completes its electricity sector reform, the Ministry of Energy will take over management functions in the industry from former monopoly RAO Unified Energy System (EESR.RS), when it ceases to exist at the end of this month.
European energy giants Italy's Enel Spa (ENEL.MI), Germany's E.On (EOA.XE) and RWE (WE.XE) and Finland's Fortum (FUM1V.HE) are among the investors in Russia's power sector.