Putin warns West over 'nuclear blackmail'
STORY: "If the territorial integrity of our country is threatened, we will use all available means to protect our people - this is not a bluff," Putin said in a televised address to the nation, adding Russia had "lots of weapons to reply".
Russia's defence minister said the partial mobilisation will see 300,000 reserves called and up would apply to those with previous military experience.
Putin's partial mobilisation significantly escalates the conflict over Ukraine and comes as Russia battles a Ukrainian counter-offensive that has forced its troops to retreat and surrender some occupied territory.
