New Nato chief vows tough line on Russia

NATO's new supreme commander US General Curtis Scaparrotti said on Wednesday that he would "strengthen" the alliance's stance in eastern Europe against a resurgent Russia.

At a handover ceremony from his predecessor Philip Breedlove, the former commander of US forces in Korea also said NATO should consider whether to provide Ukraine with weaponry as it battles pro-Russian rebels.

Scaparrotti's comments came as Russia's defence minister announced that Moscow will set up three new divisions in the west and south by the end of the year to counter NATO forces close to its border.