President Putin spoke in front of a series of videos and simulations with clunky graphics Marat Abulkhatin/TASS via Getty ImagesPresident Putin boasted of a growing arsenal of “menacing” superweapons invulnerable to western defences yesterday as he warned that Russia’s military build-up could not be contained. Mr Putin demonstrated the missiles, warheads and an underwater drone in a series of videos as he gave his annual address to MPs and the political elite. The 65-year-old leader, who will seek a fourth term next month, said that the West would be forced to reckon with a rearmed Russia after years of ignoring Kremlin concerns about the deployment of a US defence shield in Europe and Washington’s withdrawal from the anti-ballistic missile treaty in 2002. Gavin Williamson, the British defence secretary, said that the Russian leader’s declarations were a reminder “to not let down our guard”.

Source: The Times March 01, 2018 17:01 UTC