Russian defense chief scoffs at Western warnings on Ukraine

Russia’s defense chief says a troop pullback from areas near Ukraine had nothing to do with Western pressure, adding that Moscow will continue doing what is necessary to protect itself

MOSCOW -- Russia's defense chief said Tuesday that a troop pullback from areas near Ukraine had nothing to do with Western pressure, adding that Moscow will continue doing what is necessary to protect itself. Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu also voiced concern about NATO forces' presence near Russia. The recent Russian troop buildup near Ukraine worried the West, which strongly urged the Kremlin to withdraw its forces. Shoigu, who ordered the drawdown on Thursday after massive drills, scoffed at the Western calls as inappropriate. “Some even warned us that our activities on our own territory will have consequences,” Shoigu said. “I would like to emphasize that we don't see such warnings as acceptable and will do everything that is necessary to ensure the security of our borders.”