Russia doesn't want conflict with Ukraine but the West must provide 'unconditional security' guarantees, Putin says

Russia doesn't want conflict with the Ukraine but Western powers must provide Moscow with "unconditional security" guarantees, President Vladimir Putin says.

Speaking at his annual news conference, Mr Putin said the US has missiles at "Russia's doorstep" and the "ball is in the West's court" in relation to security in the region.

The conference comes as Western powers fear Russia is preparing to invade Ukraine as early as the beginning of next year, which President Putin has again denied.