The Russian President welcomes talks with the US that are set to start in Geneva next month, but warns the discussion focused on Moscow's demand needs to produce quick results.
"We put it straight: There must be no further expansion of NATO eastward."
Last week, Moscow submitted draft security documents demanding that NATO deny membership to Ukraine and other former Soviet countries and roll back the alliance's military deployments in Central and Eastern Europe.The US and its allies have said they will not give Russia the kind of guarantee on Ukraine that Mr Putin wants.Ukraine is closely watching Russian troop movements near its border.
Moscow presented its demand amid soaring tensions over a Russian troop build-up near Ukraine that has stoked fears of a possible invasion.Russia would face "severe consequences" if it attacked UkraineDuring his annual news conference, Mr Putin accused the West of trying to make Ukraine "anti-Russia, constantly beefed-up with modern weapons", and of "brainwashing the population".