TSX rises as Ukraine tensions ease, Scotiabank gains

By John Tilak TORONTO (Reuters) – Canada's main stock index advanced on Tuesday, with gains in almost every major sector, after comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin helped ease concerns that military conflict in Ukraine was imminent. Providing further support, shares of Bank of Nova Scotia climbed after the lender reported higher quarterly earnings and raised its dividend. While Putin defended Russia's actions in Crimea, global markets took comfort from his statement that military force would be the last resort in Russia's dealings with Ukraine. The Toronto Stock Exchange's S&P/TSX composite index was up 66.03 points, or 0.46 percent, at 14,278.77.