Carter says U.S. can’t rely on Putin changing

BERLIN — Defense Secretary Ash Carter said the U.S. and NATO need to have a “strong but balanced” approach to Russia, and he questioned whether Moscow’s “backward-looking” aggressive behavior will change while President Vladimir Putin remains at the helm.

Speaking to reporters in Europe on Sunday, Carter said he can’t be certain Putin will change direction, so allies must use a two-pronged approach that works with Russia while also preparing to respond to Moscow’s aggression.