Story highlights Putin tells reporters: Hackers could work on behalf of their country's interests

Russian President denies that any Russian hackers were working on behalf of government

Moscow (CNN) Russian President Vladimir Putin seemed to suggest Thursday that "patriotic hackers" may have meddled in the US election, but insisted that none of their potential activities were state-backed.

It's the first time the Russian leader has conceded that any election-related hacking attacks may have emanated from his country.

In comments to reporters at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum, Putin likened hackers to "artists," who could act on behalf of Russia if they felt its interests were being threatened.

"(Artists) may act on behalf of their country, they wake up in good mood and paint things. Same with hackers, they woke up today, read something about the state-to-state relations.

"If they are patriotic, they contribute in a way they think is right, to fight against those who say bad things about Russia," Putin said.

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