Putin Calls Crisis in Ukraine an 'Unconstitutional Coup'

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Tuesday that ally Viktor Yanukovych had been ousted in an "unconstitutional coup" but insisted the use of force in Ukraine would be a last resort.

When asked if the possibility of Russian military intervention existed, Putin told reporters: "There is not need to do that now."

Putin suggested the pro-Moscow Yanukovych, who fled Ukraine after days of protests that left dozens dead, should still be in power.

The Russian president, whose forces took control of Ukraine's Crimea region over the weekend, said he understood the frustration expressed by Ukrainian protesters.

They were demanding change because of the series of inept an corrupt leaders that had governed the Ukraine, he said.

Yanukovych was swept from power last month by protesters angry after he backed out of closer ties with Europe.

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