NATO is set to create a "high-readiness" force and stockpile military equipment in Eastern Europe - in response to Russia's actions in Ukraine.

Nato leaders are to consider the plans at a summit this week in Wales that is likely to be dominated by how the US-led alliance should respond to the Russian-backed separatist uprising in eastern Ukraine.

Nato Chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen (pictured) says the proposed new force could be comprised of several thousand troops, contributed to on a rotating basis by the 28 Nato countries.

Backed by air and naval assets, he says the unit would be a "spearhead" that could be deployed at very short notice to help NATO members defend themselves against any threat, including from Russia.