Putin warns of possible military response over ‘aggressive’ Nato

Russian leader's speech to top commanders comes amid growing tensions over Ukraine

Vladimir Putin has said he will consider a military response if Russia feels threatened by Nato, in a sign that he is not ready to de-escalate tensions over a potential invasion of Ukraine.

In a combative speech on Tuesday, Putin - who has demanded security guarantees" from Nato - told his top military commanders that the west was to blame for the rising tensions. It came against a backdrop of a Russian buildup of tanks and artillery for what could constitute an invasion force within weeks.