MOSCOW — President Vladimir Putin warned the West on Wednesday not to cross Russia’s “red lines,” saying Moscow would respond swiftly and harshly to any provocations in a way that would force those behind them to regret their actions.
Putin made his comments at a time when relations with the United States and Europe are under acute strain over Ukraine and the health of jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny.
“We want good relations…and really don’t want to burn bridges,” Putin said in his annual state of the nation address to both houses of parliament.
“But if someone mistakes our good intentions for indifference or weakness and intends to burn down or even blow up thes…
Keep on reading: Putin warns West of harsh response if it crosses Russia’s ‘red lines’