Vladimir Putin compares Russia to a bear trying to protect its forest . Comment: At year-end news conference , he said sanctions were behind some of Russia 's woes . Russian President said Moscow was ready to mediate in the Ukraine crisis .
Vladimir Putin compares Russia to a bear trying to protect its forest . Putin says if the bear rests , it will have its teeth and claws pulled out . At year-end news conference , he said sanctions were behind some of Russia 's woes . Russian President said Moscow was ready to mediate in the Ukraine crisis .