Russian President Vladimir Putin has described the current rises in the prices of foods as alarming. "I find price growth alarming, in particular, the rising prices of foods," Putin said at his routine Monday meeting with Cabinet members. Prime Minister Viktor Zubkov promised the government would take the necessary action right away to curb prices. "Later today I will hold conferences on ways of protecting the food market," he said. "As a matter of fact, instructions to the ministries and agencies are ready. The work will begin as of today." For her part, Economic Development and Trade Minister Elvira Nabiullina said "the government plans to take a number of measures, including those in the sphere of foreign trade control and the struggle against local monopolies on regional markets, as well as create incentives for domestic farm producers. "Make sure there be no delays," Putin said.