We begin in Russia, where President Vladimir Putin claims the country has developed an 'invincible' new cruise missile in his annual state of the nation address in Moscow. Defense and domestic affairs featured prominently in the speech, where Putin set out his vision for a more modern, powerful and prosperous Russia. Jessica King reports from Moscow.

With just 17 days until the Russian Presidential elections, Vladimir Putin used his state of the nation speech to set out his key policies. He vowed to halve poverty levels, boost salaries and pensions and double spending on urban infrastructure over the next six years. As well as focusing heavily on domestic affairs, Putin emphasized Russia's growing military power. He claims Russia has developed an 'invincible' new cruise missile, which can reach anywhere in the world and is undetectable. Some Russian analysts say this is a retaliation to what Moscow sees as threats from the West.

During the two-hour televised speech, Putin said Russia wasn't trying to be an 'aggressor', and he argued building a new range of weapons was to maintain peace in the world. He also set out ambitious economic goals, which he said would ensure a bright future for Russia's young people.

VLADIMIR PUTIN RUSSIAN PRESIDENT "We have to create such a strong creative power and dynamics of development that no obstacles would stop us from moving forward confidentially and independently. We must and we will determine our future ourselves."

JESSICA KING MOSCOW On one hand, this speech was about using the very latest technology and science to improve healthcare, education, infrastructure and jobs. But it was also aimed and showing the rest of the world, that Russia, and Putin himself, shouldn't be underestimated, as he approaches what is widely expected to be his fourth term in office. Jessica King, CGTN, Moscow.