In what is somewhat of a mildly amusing statement, and I am sure not all of the conversation.  Suggests that its down to patriotic  individuals acting on behalf of themselves when they feel there are negative comments made about Russia.

It’s an interesting take on the subject.

https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-putin-patriotic-hackers-target-critics-not-state/28522639.html

Responding to a question about concerns in Germany that Russian hackers could meddle in that country’s upcoming federal elections, Putin said it was “theoretically possible” that “patriotic” hackers could attack those who “speak negatively about Russia.”

“At a government level, we are never engaged in this. That’s the most important thing,” Putin said at the televised meeting, which was held during Russia’s annual St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. He added that hackers could come “from any country in the world.”