Vladimir Putin compares Russia to a bear trying to protect its forest . Comment: This is a threat for us , '' he said . 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 . 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 .