Ukraine calls for Nato's help

Show of strength needed to confront Russia and Putin - president

On alert: A Ukrainian soldier aims an anti-aircraft rocket launcher during military exercises in eastern Ukraine. Photo: PA

Karla De Wintours

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has asked Nato members, including Germany, to send naval vessels to the Sea of Azov to back his country in its stand-off with Russia.

"Germany is one of our closest allies and we hope that states within Nato are now ready to relocate naval ships to the Sea of Azov in order to assist Ukraine and provide security," he told Germany's 'Bild' newspaper.