Putin: Europe has double standards against N. Cyprus

Putin suggested that Russia would not respond by recognizing the independence of pro-Russian separatist regions in the former Soviet Union, but said Moscow has planned a response that will protect its interests. He avoided specifics. "I will yet again emphasize that we consider that unilateral support for independence for Kosovo is immoral and illegal," he said.

Russia, a traditional supporter of Serbia, adamantly opposes any final decision on Kosovo's status that is not supported by Serbia. Putin branded the Western argument that Kosovo is a special case a "lie" and repeated Russia's warning that supporting the province's independence would set a dangerous precedent for other separatist regions.

"We have Abkhazia, South Ossetia, Trans-Dniester and they say Kosovo is a special case?" he said, referring to three breakaway, pro-Russian regions in the ex-Soviet republics of Georgia and Moldova. "There are no particularities there and everyone understands this perfectly."

Russia has supported Serbia's call for an urgent meeting on Kosovo in the UN Security Council, where Moscow is a permanent, veto-wielding member. Putin said the issue would be discussed at the meeting expected Thursday.

Beyond refusing to recognize Kosovo's independence, he did not say how Russia would respond. "We will not behave like monkeys and necessarily act in line or as a mirror," Putin said, suggesting that Moscow would not swiftly recognize the independence claims of Abkhazia, South Ossetia or Trans-Dniester -- moves that would likely cause a major break with the West. "But of course, for us it's a signal, and we will react to such behavior by our partners in order to provide for our interests," he said. "We know what we will do."