Putin threatens West in annual address

Though he said Moscow wants a good relationship with members of the international community, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Western nations against crossing a “red line in respect to Russia.” During his annual state-of-the-nation address on Monday, he said the country’s response would be “asymmetrical, quick, and tough” for any country that interferes in core national security interests.

What’s he talking about? Putin’s comments are likely a reference to Russia’s troop buildup on its border with Ukraine. The Kremlin has dismissed concerns from the United States and others about possible military action. Cease-fire violations in the seven-year conflict between Russian-backed separatists and Ukrainian forces have escalated in recent weeks.

Dig deeper: Read Jamie Dean’s report about Russia’s crackdown on dissenters and religious minorities.