Putin threatens West in annual address

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Russian President Vladimir Putin gives his annual state-of-the-nation address in Moscow on Wednesday. Associated Press/Photo by Mikhail Metzel/ Sputnik/Kremlin Pool Photo

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.

Leigh Jones

Leigh is features editor for WORLD. She is a World Journalism Institute graduate who spent six years as a newspaper reporter in Texas before joining WORLD News Group. Leigh also co-wrote Infinite Monster: Courage, Hope, and Resurrection in the Face of One of America's Largest Hurricanes. She resides with her husband and daughter in Houston, Texas.