Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed tensions with the west over growing concerns about troop buildup on its border near Ukraine, reports BBC.
The Russian president wanted quick surety on the future of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) to stem the crisis.
“The ball is in their court, they have to give us some response,” Putin said at his annual press conference.
The United States (US) warned of sanctions if Putin does not refrain from his actions.
Ukraine security officials say more than 100,000 Russian troops have been sent close to its borders, and the US has threatened Putin with sanctions “like none he’s ever seen” if Ukraine comes under attack.
Russia wanted Nato to give up all military action in Eastern Europe.
“It’s you who must give us guarantees, and give them immediately, now,” Putin said on Thursday, stressing that military measures were not his preferred choice.
United Kingdom (UK) Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said she welcomed the fact that Moscow had “signalled it is willing to enter talks in January”, but warned any Russian attack would be met with sanctions that would hit Russia’s economy.
