An “effective” embargo on Russian oil and gas can force Vladimir Putin to stop the war in Ukraine, the Russian president’s former chief economic adviser has told the BBC.

If Western countries “would try to implement a real embargo on oil and gas exports from Russia … I would bet that probably within a month or two, Russian military operations in Ukraine, probably will be ceased, will be stopped,” said Dr Andrei Illarionov.

“It’s one of the very effective instruments still in the possession of the Western countries.”

He claimed that the threats of oil ban by the Western countries have been not taken “seriously” by Putin.

Europe imports about 40 per cent of its gas and 27 per cent of its oil needs from Russia.

Despite threatening to cut imports, many European countries have continued to purchase fuel, indirectly helping Putin to fund his war in Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-prime-minister-boris-johnson-meets-ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-in-kyiv-469759" hreflang="en">UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson meets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv</a>

This was highlighted recently by top EU diplomat Josep Borrell who said, "A billion [euros] is what we pay Putin every day for the energy he supplies us.”

A plethora of economic sanctions has so far failed to stop Putin's war on Ukraine.

Dr Illarionov claimed that the Russian president was prepared to let the domestic economy hit hard by sanctions as he is blindsided by his “territorial ambitions”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-appoints-new-military-commander-in-ukraine-who-is-general-aleksandr-dvornikov-469926" hreflang="en">Putin appoints new military commander in Ukraine: Who is General Aleksandr&nbsp;Dvornikov?</a>

"His territorial ambitions, his imperial ambitions, are much more important than anything else, including the livelihood of the Russian population and of the financial situation in the country... even the financial state of his government," he was quoted as saying.

In the BBC interview, he also argued that a change of government is inevitable “sooner or later” as “it is absolutely impossible to have any positive future for Russia with the current political regime.”

(With inputs from agencies)

An “effective” embargo on Russian oil and gas can force Vladimir Putin to stop the war in Ukraine, the Russian president’s former chief economic adviser has told the BBC.

An “effective” embargo on Russian oil and gas can force Vladimir Putin to stop the war in Ukraine, the Russian president’s former chief economic adviser has told the BBC. If Western countries “would try to implement a real embargo on oil and gas exports from Russia … I would bet that probably within a month or two, Russian military operations in Ukraine, probably will be ceased, will be stopped,” said Dr Andrei Illarionov. “It’s one of the very effective instruments still in the possession of the Western countries.” He claimed that the threats of oil ban by the Western countries have been not taken “seriously” by Putin. Europe imports about 40 per cent of its gas and 27 per cent of its oil needs from Russia. Despite threatening to cut imports, many European countries have continued to purchase fuel, indirectly helping Putin to fund his war in Ukraine. Also read | UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson meets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv This was highlighted recently by top EU diplomat Josep Borrell who said, "A billion [euros] is what we pay Putin every day for the energy he supplies us.” A plethora of economic sanctions has so far failed to stop Putin's war on Ukraine. Dr Illarionov claimed that the Russian president was prepared to let the domestic economy hit hard by sanctions as he is blindsided by his “territorial ambitions”. Also read | Putin appoints new military commander in Ukraine: Who is General Aleksandr Dvornikov? "His territorial ambitions, his imperial ambitions, are much more important than anything else, including the livelihood of the Russian population and of the financial situation in the country... even the financial state of his government," he was quoted as saying. In the BBC interview, he also argued that a change of government is inevitable “sooner or later” as “it is absolutely impossible to have any positive future for Russia with the current political regime.” (With inputs from agencies)

Total embargo on Russian oil and gas can stop war within a month: Putin’s ex-economic advisor

Vassily Nebenzia, Russia's UN Ambassador, has promised a fresh ceasefire for Tuesday, claiming that Ukrainians will be able to select "where they wish to be evacuated to."

The event will start at 10 a.m. Moscow time (12.30 PM Indian Standard Time).

Following Ukraine's rejection of the earlier offer, it was discovered that departure routes would send migrants to Russia or Belarus.

According to Ukraine, the Russian attacks are preventing its population from safely escaping their encircled towns.

Several people in Mariupol city were running out of food and water.

On Tuesday, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, entered its 13th day.&nbsp;

Ukraine's UN Ambassador, Sergiy Kyslytsya, believes the Russian invasion has brought the country "to the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe of possibly global scope."&nbsp;

Watch | What's the impact of war on Children? How to help kids cope with war? Expert answers

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Watch | Gravitas | Ukraine Vs Russia: The meme war

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(With inputs from agencies)

Vassily Nebenzia, Russia's UN Ambassador, has promised a fresh ceasefire for Tuesday, claiming that Ukrainians will be able to select "where they wish to be evacuated to.

Vassily Nebenzia, Russia's UN Ambassador, has promised a fresh ceasefire for Tuesday, claiming that Ukrainians will be able to select "where they wish to be evacuated to." The event will start at 10 a.m. Moscow time (12.30 PM Indian Standard Time). Following Ukraine's rejection of the earlier offer, it was discovered that departure routes would send migrants to Russia or Belarus. According to Ukraine, the Russian attacks are preventing its population from safely escaping their encircled towns. Several people in Mariupol city were running out of food and water. On Tuesday, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, entered its 13th day. Ukraine's UN Ambassador, Sergiy Kyslytsya, believes the Russian invasion has brought the country "to the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe of possibly global scope." Watch | What's the impact of war on Children? How to help kids cope with war? Expert answers Watch | Gravitas | Ukraine Vs Russia: The meme war (With inputs from agencies)

Russia announces a new ceasefire to let people evacuate in ‘direction of their choice’

India abstained on a procedural resolution to call for a rare special emergency session of the UN General Assembly on Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

Two days after the Russian veto blocked a UNSC resolution on its aggression against Ukraine, the Security Council voted to convene an emergency special session of the 193-member General Assembly on the crisis.

The 15-nation Security Council met on Sunday afternoon to hold a vote on the emergency special session of the General Assembly on Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Only 10 such emergency sessions of the General Assembly have been held since 1950.

India abstained, while Russia voted against the resolution and 11 council members voted in favour. The vote calling for the session was procedural so none of the five permanent members of the Security Council -- China, France, Russia, UK and the US -- could exercise their vetoes.

President of the 76th session of the General Assembly Abdulla Shahid, who was to attend the 49th regular session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, cancelled his trip "due to the ongoing situation in Ukraine and potential developments in the Security Council," for the vote.

He also met with Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya on Saturday after the veto on the draft resolution in the Security Council. Kyslytsya briefed Shahid "on the security situation in Kyiv and the potential action he would be seeking in the General Assembly."

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also cancelled his scheduled trip to Geneva for the Human Rights Council meeting "due to the aggravating situation in Ukraine."

The Security Council on Friday evening failed to adopt the US-sponsored resolution that would have deplored Russia's "aggression" against Ukraine after Moscow used its veto.

On Friday too, India, China and the UAE abstained from the resolution, while 11 members of the Council voted in favour.

The UNSC resolution was expected to be blocked since Russia, a permanent member of the Council and President of the UN organ for the month of February, was certain to use its veto. Western nations said the resolution had sought to show Moscow's isolation on the global stage for its invasion and actions against Ukraine.

US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield had said after the failed UNSC vote that "we will be taking this matter to the General Assembly, where the Russian veto does not apply and the nations of the world will continue to hold Russia accountable."

While a UNSC resolution would have been legally binding, General Assembly resolutions are not. A vote in the 193-member UN body is symbolic of world opinion.

In the explanation of vote in the Security Council on Friday, India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti had said India is "deeply disturbed" by the recent turn of developments in Ukraine and urges that all efforts be made for the immediate cessation of violence and hostilities.

Tirumurti also said India is "deeply concerned" about the welfare and security of the Indian community, including a large number of Indian students, in Ukraine.

"Dialogue is the only answer to settling differences and disputes, however daunting that may appear at this moment. It is a matter of regret that the path of diplomacy was given up. We must return to it. For all these reasons, India has chosen to abstain on this resolution," Tirumurti had said.

In March 2014, after Russia's annexation of Crimea, the General Assembly had adopted a resolution that underscored the "invalidity" of the referendum held in "autonomous Crimea".

By a recorded vote of 100 in favour to 11 against, with 58 abstentions, the Assembly had adopted a resolution titled 'Territorial Integrity of Ukraine', calling on States, international organisations and specialised agencies not to recognise any change in the status of Crimea or the Black Sea port city of Sevastopol, and to refrain from actions or dealings that might be interpreted as such. India had abstained from the resolution.

Under the resolution "Uniting for Peace", adopted by the General Assembly in November 1950, an emergency special session can be convened within 24 hours of such a meeting being requested.

The UNGA "resolves that if the Security Council, because of lack of unanimity of the permanent members, fails to exercise its primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security in any case where there appears to be a threat to the peace, breach of the peace, or act of aggression, the General Assembly shall consider the matter immediately with a view to making appropriate recommendations to Members...," the resolution states.

"If not in session at the time, the General Assembly may meet in emergency special session within twenty-four hours of the request therefore. Such emergency special session shall be called if requested by the Security Council on the vote of any seven members, or by a majority of the Members of the United Nations," it says.

The UNGA resolution of 1950 also reaffirms the "importance of the exercise by the Security Council of its primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security, and the duty of the permanent members to seek unanimity and to exercise restraint in the use of the veto."

India abstained on a procedural resolution to call for a rare special emergency session of the UN General Assembly on Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Two days after the Russian veto blocked a UNSC resolution on its aggression against Ukraine, the Security Council voted to convene an emergency special session of the 193-member General Assembly on the crisis.

India abstained on a procedural resolution to call for a rare special emergency session of the UN General Assembly on Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Two days after the Russian veto blocked a UNSC resolution on its aggression against Ukraine, the Security Council voted to convene an emergency special session of the 193-member General Assembly on the crisis. The 15-nation Security Council met on Sunday afternoon to hold a vote on the emergency special session of the General Assembly on Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Only 10 such emergency sessions of the General Assembly have been held since 1950. India abstained, while Russia voted against the resolution and 11 council members voted in favour. The vote calling for the session was procedural so none of the five permanent members of the Security Council -- China, France, Russia, UK and the US -- could exercise their vetoes. President of the 76th session of the General Assembly Abdulla Shahid, who was to attend the 49th regular session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, cancelled his trip "due to the ongoing situation in Ukraine and potential developments in the Security Council," for the vote. He also met with Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya on Saturday after the veto on the draft resolution in the Security Council. Kyslytsya briefed Shahid "on the security situation in Kyiv and the potential action he would be seeking in the General Assembly." UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also cancelled his scheduled trip to Geneva for the Human Rights Council meeting "due to the aggravating situation in Ukraine." The Security Council on Friday evening failed to adopt the US-sponsored resolution that would have deplored Russia's "aggression" against Ukraine after Moscow used its veto. On Friday too, India, China and the UAE abstained from the resolution, while 11 members of the Council voted in favour. The UNSC resolution was expected to be blocked since Russia, a permanent member of the Council and President of the UN organ for the month of February, was certain to use its veto. Western nations said the resolution had sought to show Moscow's isolation on the global stage for its invasion and actions against Ukraine. US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield had said after the failed UNSC vote that "we will be taking this matter to the General Assembly, where the Russian veto does not apply and the nations of the world will continue to hold Russia accountable." While a UNSC resolution would have been legally binding, General Assembly resolutions are not. A vote in the 193-member UN body is symbolic of world opinion. In the explanation of vote in the Security Council on Friday, India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti had said India is "deeply disturbed" by the recent turn of developments in Ukraine and urges that all efforts be made for the immediate cessation of violence and hostilities. Tirumurti also said India is "deeply concerned" about the welfare and security of the Indian community, including a large number of Indian students, in Ukraine. "Dialogue is the only answer to settling differences and disputes, however daunting that may appear at this moment. It is a matter of regret that the path of diplomacy was given up. We must return to it. For all these reasons, India has chosen to abstain on this resolution," Tirumurti had said. In March 2014, after Russia's annexation of Crimea, the General Assembly had adopted a resolution that underscored the "invalidity" of the referendum held in "autonomous Crimea". By a recorded vote of 100 in favour to 11 against, with 58 abstentions, the Assembly had adopted a resolution titled 'Territorial Integrity of Ukraine', calling on States, international organisations and specialised agencies not to recognise any change in the status of Crimea or the Black Sea port city of Sevastopol, and to refrain from actions or dealings that might be interpreted as such. India had abstained from the resolution. Under the resolution "Uniting for Peace", adopted by the General Assembly in November 1950, an emergency special session can be convened within 24 hours of such a meeting being requested. The UNGA "resolves that if the Security Council, because of lack of unanimity of the permanent members, fails to exercise its primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security in any case where there appears to be a threat to the peace, breach of the peace, or act of aggression, the General Assembly shall consider the matter immediately with a view to making appropriate recommendations to Members...," the resolution states. "If not in session at the time, the General Assembly may meet in emergency special session within twenty-four hours of the request therefore. Such emergency special session shall be called if requested by the Security Council on the vote of any seven members, or by a majority of the Members of the United Nations," it says. The UNGA resolution of 1950 also reaffirms the "importance of the exercise by the Security Council of its primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security, and the duty of the permanent members to seek unanimity and to exercise restraint in the use of the veto."

India abstains from UNSC procedural vote to call for General Assembly session on Ukraine

As Russia closes in on capital Kyiv, the Indian embassy in Ukraine has issued a new advisory to Indian nationals, especially students, stuck there, saying that arrangements are being made to evacuate&nbsp;them.

Asking them to remain “strong, safe and alert”, the embassy has urged students living closest to border checkpoints -- CHOP-ZAHONY, Hungarian border near Uzhhorod, PORUBNE-SIRET Romanian border near Chernivtsi -- to depart first in an organised manner.

“Once above routes are operational, Indian nationals travelling by their own arrangements for transport would be advised to proceed to above border checkpoints, and remain in touch with the Helpline Numbers set up at respective check­points for facilitation through the border. Numbers would&nbsp;be shared once the control rooms are established,” the advisory stated.

Students have been advised to remain in touch with student contractors, for orderly movement.

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The advisory has asked its citizens to carry essential items along with them, including passport, cash, and COVID-19 double vaccination certificate

"Carry passport, cash preferably in USD for any emergency expenses, and other essentials. COVID-19 double vaccination certificate, if available," the advisory states.

"Print out Indian flag and paste prominently on vehicles and buses while travelling," it added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-evacuate-stranded-citizens-in-ukraine-from-neighbouring-countries-sources-456437" hreflang="en">India to evacuate stranded citizens in Ukraine from neighbouring countries</a>

Meanwhile, government sources have said that evacuation flights are being organised for Indians stranded in Ukraine.

According to sources, they will be flown back from neighbouring countries and the cost will be borne by the Government of India

Air India has been roped in for the evacuation process. It will operate two flights to the Romanian capital, Bucharest, on Friday, while a third flight is planned for tomorrow (Saturday) from Budapest.

As Russia closes in on capital Kyiv, the Indian embassy in Ukraine has issued a new advisory to Indian nationals, especially students, stuck there, saying that arrangements are being made to evacuate them.

As Russia closes in on capital Kyiv, the Indian embassy in Ukraine has issued a new advisory to Indian nationals, especially students, stuck there, saying that arrangements are being made to evacuate them. Asking them to remain “strong, safe and alert”, the embassy has urged students living closest to border checkpoints -- CHOP-ZAHONY, Hungarian border near Uzhhorod, PORUBNE-SIRET Romanian border near Chernivtsi -- to depart first in an organised manner. “Once above routes are operational, Indian nationals travelling by their own arrangements for transport would be advised to proceed to above border checkpoints, and remain in touch with the Helpline Numbers set up at respective checkpoints for facilitation through the border. Numbers would be shared once the control rooms are established,” the advisory stated. Students have been advised to remain in touch with student contractors, for orderly movement. The advisory has asked its citizens to carry essential items along with them, including passport, cash, and COVID-19 double vaccination certificate "Carry passport, cash preferably in USD for any emergency expenses, and other essentials. COVID-19 double vaccination certificate, if available," the advisory states. "Print out Indian flag and paste prominently on vehicles and buses while travelling," it added. Also read | India to evacuate stranded citizens in Ukraine from neighbouring countries Meanwhile, government sources have said that evacuation flights are being organised for Indians stranded in Ukraine. According to sources, they will be flown back from neighbouring countries and the cost will be borne by the Government of India Air India has been roped in for the evacuation process. It will operate two flights to the Romanian capital, Bucharest, on Friday, while a third flight is planned for tomorrow (Saturday) from Budapest.

Indian embassy in Ukraine issues advisory, asks citizens to follow these steps

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukrainian authorities said one person was killed and one injured in the Kyiv region as explosions could be heard in the capital as&nbsp;President Putin on Thursday ordered military action against Ukraine.

Russia's defence ministry said it had attacked military bases in Ukraine adding, "military infrastructure at Ukrainian army airbases has been rendered out of action."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/target-ukraine-russias-icbm-strategy-revealed-455357">Also Read in Pics|&nbsp;Target Ukraine: Russia's ICBM strategy revealed</a>

Amid strikes by Russian forces, Ukraine's defence ministry claimed it had shot down five Russian planes including a helicopter in the eastern region.

Watch:&nbsp;Military infrastructure being disabled in Ukraine, says Russia

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"According to the Joint Forces Command, today, February 24, in the area of the Joint Forces operation, five planes and a helicopter of the aggressors were shot down," the Ukraine military said.

Reports claimed Ukraine had come under attack from Belarus as President Alexander Lukashenko called a meeting with his army chiefs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-next-wonder-weapon-kedr-intercontinental-ballistic-missile-454013">Also Read in Pics |&nbsp;Russia's next wonder weapon: Kedr intercontinental ballistic missile</a>

Reports said Belarusian troops had joined Russian forces to attack Ukraine. As air raid sires rang out in Kyiv as&nbsp;reports said all Russian diplomats were evacuated from Kyiv.

Meanwhile, Russian-backed separatists said they had shot down two Ukrainian drones. Ukrainian border guards reported that the Russian military had crossed Ukraine's border into Chernihiv, Kharviv and Luhansk region.

Newswire Reuters reported that armoured tanks were&nbsp;heading towards Mariupol. Earlier explosions were heard in Mariupol after Putin had ordered military action against Ukraine.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian authorities said one person was killed and one injured in the Kyiv region as explosions could be heard in the capital as President Putin on Thursday ordered military action against Ukraine. Russia's defence ministry said it had attacked military bases in Ukraine adding, "military infrastructure at Ukrainian army airbases has been rendered out of action." Also Read in Pics| Target Ukraine: Russia's ICBM strategy revealed Amid strikes by Russian forces, Ukraine's defence ministry claimed it had shot down five Russian planes including a helicopter in the eastern region. Watch: Military infrastructure being disabled in Ukraine, says Russia "According to the Joint Forces Command, today, February 24, in the area of the Joint Forces operation, five planes and a helicopter of the aggressors were shot down," the Ukraine military said. Reports claimed Ukraine had come under attack from Belarus as President Alexander Lukashenko called a meeting with his army chiefs. Also Read in Pics | Russia's next wonder weapon: Kedr intercontinental ballistic missile Reports said Belarusian troops had joined Russian forces to attack Ukraine. As air raid sires rang out in Kyiv as reports said all Russian diplomats were evacuated from Kyiv. Meanwhile, Russian-backed separatists said they had shot down two Ukrainian drones. Ukrainian border guards reported that the Russian military had crossed Ukraine's border into Chernihiv, Kharviv and Luhansk region. Newswire Reuters reported that armoured tanks were heading towards Mariupol. Earlier explosions were heard in Mariupol after Putin had ordered military action against Ukraine. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine's army airbases rendered out of action, says Russia

A day after the United States and many partners imposed a broad range of sanctions against Moscow, Ukraine declared a state of emergency, began mobilising reservists, and urged its residents to leave Russia immediately.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow is open to talks, but he lauded the military's readiness, which he said has been upgraded and improved by drills.

Concerted Western actions fell short of the sanctions package threatened by the Biden administration if Russia invaded Ukraine on a large scale.

Here are some of the most important developments in the crisis:&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready for "diplomatic solutions" over Ukraine but warned that "the interests of Russia and the security of our citizens are non-negotiable for us."

Ukraine is set to impose a state of emergency and has asked its citizens to leave Russia amid fears of military conflict.

The Ukrainian military says one soldier has been killed and six wounded in shelling by pro-Russian separatists in east Ukraine in the past 24 hours. It has called in the services of military reservists.

Australia, Canada, and Japan imposed sanctions on Russia in response to the Ukraine crisis, following closely behind US measures targeting Ukraine's separatist regions. Sanctions have been slapped by the UK, while the EU is also on a similar path.

Germany has taken steps to halt the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project from Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after the United States and many partners imposed a broad range of sanctions against Moscow, Ukraine declared a state of emergency, began mobilising reservists, and urged its residents to leave Russia immediately.

A day after the United States and many partners imposed a broad range of sanctions against Moscow, Ukraine declared a state of emergency, began mobilising reservists, and urged its residents to leave Russia immediately. Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow is open to talks, but he lauded the military's readiness, which he said has been upgraded and improved by drills. Concerted Western actions fell short of the sanctions package threatened by the Biden administration if Russia invaded Ukraine on a large scale. Here are some of the most important developments in the crisis: Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready for "diplomatic solutions" over Ukraine but warned that "the interests of Russia and the security of our citizens are non-negotiable for us." Ukraine is set to impose a state of emergency and has asked its citizens to leave Russia amid fears of military conflict. The Ukrainian military says one soldier has been killed and six wounded in shelling by pro-Russian separatists in east Ukraine in the past 24 hours. It has called in the services of military reservists. Australia, Canada, and Japan imposed sanctions on Russia in response to the Ukraine crisis, following closely behind US measures targeting Ukraine's separatist regions. Sanctions have been slapped by the UK, while the EU is also on a similar path. Germany has taken steps to halt the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project from Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Here are top developments that you should know

Latest satellite pictures show Russian troop deployment near Ukraine

US President Joe Biden imposed fresh sanctions on Russia while declaring that invasion of Ukraine had begun as Russian lawmakers gave Putin approval to deploy "peacekeepers" in two Ukrainian regions.

"There's no question that Russia is the aggressor, so we're clear eyed about the challenges we're facing," Biden said while adding that, "there is still time to avert the worst-case scenario that will bring untold suffering to millions of people."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/target-ukraine-russias-icbm-strategy-revealed-455357">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Target Ukraine: Russia's ICBM strategy revealed</a>

Putin on Monday had declared that Russia will recognise Donetsk and Lugansk situated in eastern Ukraine as separate republics while&nbsp;declaring&nbsp;that the Minsk peace agreements on Ukraine's conflict no longer existed.

Watch:&nbsp;Inside Vladimir Putin's mind

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"The best solution would be if the current Kyiv authorities themselves refused to join NATO and maintained neutrality," Putin said as NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said Russia "continues to plan for a full-scale attack on Ukraine."

Germany on Tuesday announced halting of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project with Russia as the UK and the European Union announced more sanctions against Russia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-crisis-how-putin-built-russias-army-as-a-potent-force-453715">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;How Putin built Russia's Army as a potent force</a>

US Secretary of state Antony Blinken cancelled his meeting with Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov adding that "it does not make&nbsp;sense to go forward with that meeting" since "invasion is beginning and Russia has made clear its wholesale rejection of diplomacy".

Biden added that the US would continue to provide defensive weapons to Ukraine and reinforce NATO troops amid Russian threat of invasion on Ukraine.

Amid escalating tensions, reports said one Ukrainian soldier died in clashes on Tuesday in the separatist region of eastern Ukraine.

(With inputs from Agencies)

US President Joe Biden imposed fresh sanctions on Russia while declaring that invasion of Ukraine had begun as Russian lawmakers gave Putin approval to deploy "peacekeepers" in two Ukrainian regions.

US President Joe Biden imposed fresh sanctions on Russia while declaring that invasion of Ukraine had begun as Russian lawmakers gave Putin approval to deploy "peacekeepers" in two Ukrainian regions. "There's no question that Russia is the aggressor, so we're clear eyed about the challenges we're facing," Biden said while adding that, "there is still time to avert the worst-case scenario that will bring untold suffering to millions of people." Also Read in Pics: Target Ukraine: Russia's ICBM strategy revealed Putin on Monday had declared that Russia will recognise Donetsk and Lugansk situated in eastern Ukraine as separate republics while declaring that the Minsk peace agreements on Ukraine's conflict no longer existed. Watch: Inside Vladimir Putin's mind "The best solution would be if the current Kyiv authorities themselves refused to join NATO and maintained neutrality," Putin said as NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said Russia "continues to plan for a full-scale attack on Ukraine." Germany on Tuesday announced halting of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project with Russia as the UK and the European Union announced more sanctions against Russia. Also Read in Pics: How Putin built Russia's Army as a potent force US Secretary of state Antony Blinken cancelled his meeting with Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov adding that "it does not make sense to go forward with that meeting" since "invasion is beginning and Russia has made clear its wholesale rejection of diplomacy". Biden added that the US would continue to provide defensive weapons to Ukraine and reinforce NATO troops amid Russian threat of invasion on Ukraine. Amid escalating tensions, reports said one Ukrainian soldier died in clashes on Tuesday in the separatist region of eastern Ukraine. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Beginning an invasion': US imposes fresh sanctions against Russia

Russia has decided not to send troops to eastern Ukraine “for now”, but added that it will do so in case of a "threat", the deputy foreign minister said on Tuesday.

The announcement comes after Moscow's parliament ratified cooperation deals with Ukraine's separatist republics.

Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko said the treaties include the provision of "military aid" but added that "speculation" on troop deployments should be avoided.

"For now, no one is planning to send anything anywhere. If there is a threat, then we will provide assistance in accordance with the ratified treaties,” he said.

Russia had deployed a few Russian troops to eastern Ukraine as “peacekeepers” after Vladimir Putin recognised Donetsk and Luhansk regions as independent from Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-hit-list-of-ukrainians-to-be-killed-after-invasion-claims-us-455387">Russia has ‘hit list’ of Ukrainians to be killed after invasion, claims US</a>

The deployment of troops&nbsp;invited ire from the West leaders, with the United Kingdom imposing sanctions on three Russian banks and three men who are close to Putin.

Britain has threatened to cut off Russian companies' access to US dollars and British pounds, blocking them from raising capital in London and to expose what PM Boris Johnson calls the “Russian doll” of property and company ownership.

The series of announcements comes even as Russia amassed over 150,000 soldiers to regions near Ukraine's borders, with the West fearing Moscow could use them for an attack at any moment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-family-guy-predict-vladimir-putins-ukraine-strategy-455350">Did Family Guy predict Vladimir Putin's Ukraine strategy?</a>

Meanwhile, Kremlin-backed separatist leader Denis Pushilin said on Tuesday that Moscow formally recognized the breakaway region of Donetsk within the wider boundaries of eastern Ukraine's Donetsk region, much of which is controlled by Ukrainian forces.

Speaking on Russian state television, Pushilin said the matter of the territory not controlled by separatists would be resolved later.

"The border issue is not simple, it will be resolved later," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has decided not to send troops to eastern Ukraine “for now”, but added that it will do so in case of a "threat", the deputy foreign minister said on Tuesday.

Russia has decided not to send troops to eastern Ukraine “for now”, but added that it will do so in case of a "threat", the deputy foreign minister said on Tuesday. The announcement comes after Moscow's parliament ratified cooperation deals with Ukraine's separatist republics. Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko said the treaties include the provision of "military aid" but added that "speculation" on troop deployments should be avoided. "For now, no one is planning to send anything anywhere. If there is a threat, then we will provide assistance in accordance with the ratified treaties,” he said. Russia had deployed a few Russian troops to eastern Ukraine as “peacekeepers” after Vladimir Putin recognised Donetsk and Luhansk regions as independent from Ukraine. Also read | Russia has ‘hit list’ of Ukrainians to be killed after invasion, claims US The deployment of troops invited ire from the West leaders, with the United Kingdom imposing sanctions on three Russian banks and three men who are close to Putin. Britain has threatened to cut off Russian companies' access to US dollars and British pounds, blocking them from raising capital in London and to expose what PM Boris Johnson calls the “Russian doll” of property and company ownership. The series of announcements comes even as Russia amassed over 150,000 soldiers to regions near Ukraine's borders, with the West fearing Moscow could use them for an attack at any moment. Also read | Did Family Guy predict Vladimir Putin's Ukraine strategy? Meanwhile, Kremlin-backed separatist leader Denis Pushilin said on Tuesday that Moscow formally recognized the breakaway region of Donetsk within the wider boundaries of eastern Ukraine's Donetsk region, much of which is controlled by Ukrainian forces. Speaking on Russian state television, Pushilin said the matter of the territory not controlled by separatists would be resolved later. "The border issue is not simple, it will be resolved later," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia won’t send troops to east Ukraine ‘for now’, says deputy foreign minister

After Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered Russian troops to be deployed inside separatist areas of Ukraine, US officials said they would continue to follow diplomacy "until the tanks roll".

Putin announced that Russian troops would act as "peacekeepers" in the Donetsk and Lugansk regions as the treaty "comes into force from the day it was signed".

Putin did not specify the date of troop deployment. Russian forces have been amassed at the border for months amid US warning that Putin forces are ready to invade Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/strike-force-russias-tornado-s-rocket-system-can-strike-multiple-targets-454294">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia's Tornado-S rocket system can strike multiple targets</a>

"We will never abandon our sovereignty and national values," Putin said. Putin signed the decree recognising the self-proclaimed republics while also urging Russian parliamentarians to sign the treaties with Ukraine's rebel regions even as European nations asked Russian officials not to go ahead.

Watch:&nbsp;2,000 ceasefire violations in eastern Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-2000-ceasefire-violations-in-eastern-ukraine-455187/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Under the treaty, Russian forces will have the right to build military bases in the two breakaway regions - Donetsk People's Republic and the Lugansk People's Republic with both sides. The Russian president has sent the two "friendship treaties" to parliament for ratification.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-next-wonder-weapon-kedr-intercontinental-ballistic-missile-454013">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia's next wonder weapon: Kedr intercontinental ballistic missile</a>

Meanwhile, the UK said it would be announcing "package of sanctions to be introduced immediately".

After making the announcement, Putin said, "We are again being blackmailed by threats to face new sanctions. Which I think they will impose anyway, as our sovereignty and our military forces will grow."&nbsp;

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said the US will impose "prohibit new investment, trade, and financing by US persons to, from, or in the so-called DNR and LNR regions of Ukraine" as President Biden signed an executive order.

It will "provide authority to impose sanctions on any person determined to operate in those areas of Ukraine," Psaki said, adding that the sanctions would be widened "should Russia further invade Ukraine."

(With inputs from Agencies)

After Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered Russian troops to be deployed inside separatist areas of Ukraine, US officials said they would continue to follow diplomacy "until the tanks roll".

After Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered Russian troops to be deployed inside separatist areas of Ukraine, US officials said they would continue to follow diplomacy "until the tanks roll". Putin announced that Russian troops would act as "peacekeepers" in the Donetsk and Lugansk regions as the treaty "comes into force from the day it was signed". Putin did not specify the date of troop deployment. Russian forces have been amassed at the border for months amid US warning that Putin forces are ready to invade Ukraine. Also Read in Pics: Russia's Tornado-S rocket system can strike multiple targets "We will never abandon our sovereignty and national values," Putin said. Putin signed the decree recognising the self-proclaimed republics while also urging Russian parliamentarians to sign the treaties with Ukraine's rebel regions even as European nations asked Russian officials not to go ahead. Watch: 2,000 ceasefire violations in eastern Ukraine Under the treaty, Russian forces will have the right to build military bases in the two breakaway regions - Donetsk People's Republic and the Lugansk People's Republic with both sides. The Russian president has sent the two "friendship treaties" to parliament for ratification. Also Read in Pics: Russia's next wonder weapon: Kedr intercontinental ballistic missile Meanwhile, the UK said it would be announcing "package of sanctions to be introduced immediately". After making the announcement, Putin said, "We are again being blackmailed by threats to face new sanctions. Which I think they will impose anyway, as our sovereignty and our military forces will grow." White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said the US will impose "prohibit new investment, trade, and financing by US persons to, from, or in the so-called DNR and LNR regions of Ukraine" as President Biden signed an executive order. It will "provide authority to impose sanctions on any person determined to operate in those areas of Ukraine," Psaki said, adding that the sanctions would be widened "should Russia further invade Ukraine." (With inputs from Agencies)

US imposes sanctions on two Russian-backed areas in eastern Ukraine

The staccato thud of exploding shells can be heard along the tense lines in Ukraine's Lugansk area between government forces and rebel-held territory.

On Kyiv's side of the front, civilian residences and buildings appear to have been caught in the crossfire of Thursday's bombardment, with debris scattered across the once-peaceful floors.

"They've been shooting every now and then for the last two days," a resident of the border town of Stanytsia Luhanska tells AFP as he stands in the ruins of his home.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin claims that the situation in Eastern Ukraine is worsening.

Since 2014, Russia has backed separatist insurgents in territories controlled by the separatists.

Moscow maintains that it has no plans to invade Ukraine and accuses the West of inciting "hysteria."&nbsp;

According to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict into a war would be "catastrophic," as he said at the opening ceremony of the Munich Security Conference on Friday, which Moscow will not attend this year.&nbsp;

"With a concentration of Russian troops around Ukraine, I am deeply concerned about heightened tensions and increased speculation about a military conflict in Europe," Guterres said. If that happened, "it would be catastrophic," he warned. "There is no alternative to diplomacy."

(With inputs from agencies)

The staccato thud of exploding shells can be heard along the tense lines in Ukraine's Lugansk area between government forces and rebel-held territory. On Kyiv's side of the front, civilian residences and buildings appear to have been caught in the crossfire of Thursday's bombardment, with debris scattered across the once-peaceful floors.

The staccato thud of exploding shells can be heard along the tense lines in Ukraine's Lugansk area between government forces and rebel-held territory. On Kyiv's side of the front, civilian residences and buildings appear to have been caught in the crossfire of Thursday's bombardment, with debris scattered across the once-peaceful floors. "They've been shooting every now and then for the last two days," a resident of the border town of Stanytsia Luhanska tells AFP as he stands in the ruins of his home. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin claims that the situation in Eastern Ukraine is worsening. Since 2014, Russia has backed separatist insurgents in territories controlled by the separatists. Moscow maintains that it has no plans to invade Ukraine and accuses the West of inciting "hysteria." According to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict into a war would be "catastrophic," as he said at the opening ceremony of the Munich Security Conference on Friday, which Moscow will not attend this year. "With a concentration of Russian troops around Ukraine, I am deeply concerned about heightened tensions and increased speculation about a military conflict in Europe," Guterres said. If that happened, "it would be catastrophic," he warned. "There is no alternative to diplomacy." (With inputs from agencies)

Explosions heard after shelling destroys houses in East Ukraine

Russia continues to deny planning an invasion of Ukraine, but Western leaders say it could happen in the coming days.

According to US authorities, Russia currently has up to 190,000 troops stationed in and around Ukraine.

They claim it is Europe's "largest military mobilisation" since World War II.

US President Joe Biden will host a call with the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, Britain, the EU and NATO.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/number-of-russian-troops-around-ukraine-reaches-149000-kyiv-454326">Also read | Number of Russian troops around Ukraine reaches 149,000: Kyiv</a>

In light of this warlike situation, world leaders are meeting in Munich today for the first time since 1999 for a security conference, but Russia will be absent.

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Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin claims that the situation in Eastern Ukraine is worsening.

Since 2014, Russia has backed separatist insurgents in territories controlled by the separatists.

Moscow maintains that it has no plans to invade Ukraine and accuses the West of inciting "hysteria."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-tanks-returning-to-permanent-bases-after-drills-says-russia-454247">Also read | More tanks returning to permanent bases after drills, says Russia</a>

According to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict into a war would be "catastrophic," as he said at the opening ceremony of the Munich Security Conference on Friday, which Moscow will not attend this year.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine Crisis: Is Moscow manufacturing a pretext for an invasion?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-crisis-is-moscow-manufacturing-a-pretext-for-an-invasion-454450/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-crisis-how-putin-built-russias-army-as-a-potent-force-453715">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;How Putin built Russia's Army as a potent force</a>

&nbsp;

"With a concentration of Russian troops around Ukraine, I am deeply concerned about heightened tensions and increased speculation about a military conflict in Europe," Guterres said. If that happened, "it would be catastrophic," he warned. "There is no alternative to diplomacy."

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia continues to deny planning an invasion of Ukraine, but Western leaders say it could happen in the coming days. According to US authorities, Russia currently has up to 190,000 troops stationed in and around Ukraine.

Russia continues to deny planning an invasion of Ukraine, but Western leaders say it could happen in the coming days. According to US authorities, Russia currently has up to 190,000 troops stationed in and around Ukraine. They claim it is Europe's "largest military mobilisation" since World War II. US President Joe Biden will host a call with the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, Britain, the EU and NATO. Also read | Number of Russian troops around Ukraine reaches 149,000: Kyiv In light of this warlike situation, world leaders are meeting in Munich today for the first time since 1999 for a security conference, but Russia will be absent. Officials from the United States and Ukraine have warned that the information war might worsen ahead of any Russian military engagement. That war appears to have escalated in the last 24 hours. × Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin claims that the situation in Eastern Ukraine is worsening. Since 2014, Russia has backed separatist insurgents in territories controlled by the separatists. Moscow maintains that it has no plans to invade Ukraine and accuses the West of inciting "hysteria." Also read | More tanks returning to permanent bases after drills, says Russia According to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict into a war would be "catastrophic," as he said at the opening ceremony of the Munich Security Conference on Friday, which Moscow will not attend this year. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine Crisis: Is Moscow manufacturing a pretext for an invasion? Also Read in Pics: How Putin built Russia's Army as a potent force "With a concentration of Russian troops around Ukraine, I am deeply concerned about heightened tensions and increased speculation about a military conflict in Europe," Guterres said. If that happened, "it would be catastrophic," he warned. "There is no alternative to diplomacy." (With inputs from agencies)

Russian troop buildup is the largest since World War II: US

US secretary of state Anthony Blinken told the United Nations on Friday that Russia is seeking to unleash a major invasion in the "coming days".

The US diplomat citing intelligence inputs asked Russia to "announce today with no qualification, equivocation or deflection that Russia will not invade Ukraine. State it clearly. State it plainly to the world."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-crisis-how-putin-built-russias-army-as-a-potent-force-453715">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Ukraine crisis: How Putin built Russia's Army as a potent force</a>

President Biden said Russia was planning a "false flag operation" in order to invade Ukraine as a pretext to launch an attack.&nbsp;

"They have not moved any of their troops out. They've moved more troops in," the US president said, adding, "Every indication we have is that they're prepared to go into Ukraine." Biden reiterated that path to diplomacy "is a way through this".

Blinken said Russia should demonstrate its intentions "by sending your troops, your tanks, your planes, back to their barrack" and allow its diplomats to negotiate.

Watch:&nbsp;Is Russia conducting a proxy war in Ukraine?

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Russia has repeatedly scoffed at reports that its forces are ready to invade Ukraine even as the US has said heavy artillery, tanks and thousands of troops&nbsp;are stationed at the border with Ukraine.

Meanwhile, shelling was reported as exchanges of fire took place between Ukraine's forces and pro-Russian separatists

Russia had submitted a security document to the United States and NATO stating that ex-Soviet states&nbsp;should not be inducted into the European military alliance referring to Ukraine, however, both NATO and the US have rejected Russia's direction.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-next-wonder-weapon-kedr-intercontinental-ballistic-missile-454013">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia's next wonder weapon: Kedr intercontinental ballistic missile</a>

"In the absence of will on the American side to negotiate firm and legally binding guarantees on our security from the United States and its allies, Russia will be forced to respond, including with military-technical measures," the Russian foreign ministry said.

Russia had announced earlier this week that its forces were returning to their permanent bases after drills in Belarus including those who had taken part in the Crimea military exercise. However, the US said it needs proof of Russian withdrawal.

US officials say there are at least 150,000 Russian troops massed along the southern, eastern and northern borders of Ukraine.

(With inputs from Agencies)

 
&nbsp;

US secretary of state Anthony Blinken told the United Nations on Friday that Russia is seeking to unleash a major invasion in the "coming days". The US diplomat citing intelligence inputs asked Russia to "announce today with no qualification, equivocation or deflection that Russia will not invade Ukraine.

US secretary of state Anthony Blinken told the United Nations on Friday that Russia is seeking to unleash a major invasion in the "coming days". The US diplomat citing intelligence inputs asked Russia to "announce today with no qualification, equivocation or deflection that Russia will not invade Ukraine. State it clearly. State it plainly to the world." Also Read in Pics: Ukraine crisis: How Putin built Russia's Army as a potent force President Biden said Russia was planning a "false flag operation" in order to invade Ukraine as a pretext to launch an attack. "They have not moved any of their troops out. They've moved more troops in," the US president said, adding, "Every indication we have is that they're prepared to go into Ukraine." Biden reiterated that path to diplomacy "is a way through this". Blinken said Russia should demonstrate its intentions "by sending your troops, your tanks, your planes, back to their barrack" and allow its diplomats to negotiate. Watch: Is Russia conducting a proxy war in Ukraine? Russia has repeatedly scoffed at reports that its forces are ready to invade Ukraine even as the US has said heavy artillery, tanks and thousands of troops are stationed at the border with Ukraine. Meanwhile, shelling was reported as exchanges of fire took place between Ukraine's forces and pro-Russian separatists Russia had submitted a security document to the United States and NATO stating that ex-Soviet states should not be inducted into the European military alliance referring to Ukraine, however, both NATO and the US have rejected Russia's direction. Also Read in Pics: Russia's next wonder weapon: Kedr intercontinental ballistic missile "In the absence of will on the American side to negotiate firm and legally binding guarantees on our security from the United States and its allies, Russia will be forced to respond, including with military-technical measures," the Russian foreign ministry said. Russia had announced earlier this week that its forces were returning to their permanent bases after drills in Belarus including those who had taken part in the Crimea military exercise. However, the US said it needs proof of Russian withdrawal. US officials say there are at least 150,000 Russian troops massed along the southern, eastern and northern borders of Ukraine. (With inputs from Agencies)

State plainly Russia will not invade Ukraine, US challenges Putin

America’s chaotic exit from Afghanistan last year was a made-for-TV tragedy — complete with camera-ready scenes of frantic civilians, harried US&nbsp;Marines and helicopters hovering over an embassy roof.

Ukraine is a foreign policy conundrum of an entirely different sort. President Joe Biden’s task is to stop a war from beginning, not to end one with dignity. But even if he wards off a Russian invasion, he shouldn’t expect any ticker tape on Fifth Avenue.

“The politics of foreign policy are rarely fair, and this is the epitome of that kind of situation,” said John Gans, a former Pentagon speechwriter in the Obama administration. “You rarely get credit for the dogs that don’t bark.”

Our New York Times colleagues have been all over the national security aspects of the showdown with Moscow, including the latest news developments, with reporting by Julian E. Barnes and Helene Cooper on how the White House is trying to outfox Russia, and Michael Crowley’s look at Biden’s calculations.

But this is a political newsletter, so we must ask a crass question: Can Ukraine help Biden win back some of the public trust he lost after the Afghanistan pullout?

In conversations in recent days with current and former officials, members of Congress and Capitol Hill aides, we found broad support overall for Biden’s approach to Ukraine, although some Republicans complained about specific aspects of the strategy. But the president’s options for resolving the crisis, many said, could give critics an opening. And, as Biden warned in his remarks Tuesday, confronting Vladimir Putin is not likely to be “painless” for Americans, even if Russia relents.

Quieting the Doubters

For the moment, Biden has faced some criticism on the right, but there’s been no sustained chorus of rebukes from either party.

Republicans aren’t speaking with one voice. They are split between those, like Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, who are agitating for a harder line against Moscow, and skeptics like Tucker Carlson of Fox News who say that Ukraine is not America’s problem. The party in 2018 lost its most prominent hawk, Sen. John McCain of Arizona, while its current leader, Donald Trump, makes for a less than ideal messenger when it comes to Russia.

The White House has also kept leading progressives on board. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., has praised the administration for “doing its best walking a very difficult tightrope,” while Democratic Sens. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Jeff Merkley of Oregon told HuffPost that they support Biden’s strategy.

Unlike with Afghanistan, criticism from the foreign policy establishment has been muted.

“I think they started with a bit of an analytical mistake — that they could have a stable and predictable relationship with Russia so they could focus on China,” said Michael McFaul, a former ambassador to Russia in the Obama administration. “But, generally, I’m impressed.”

Since November, the administration has held more than 300 “diplomatic engagements” with partners and allies. Biden has sent troops to bolster jittery NATO allies in Eastern Europe. And the White House has used information as a weapon of deterrence, declassifying and disclosing intelligence to disrupt possible Russian operations in real-time.

Andrea Kendall-Taylor, a former deputy national intelligence officer for Russia, described this as an effort to “build a common threat picture.”

That much has worked so far. European countries that might otherwise have gone wobbly, notably Germany, have agreed to impose severe sanctions should Putin decide to invade.

“Trump couldn’t have done this,” said Daniel Fried, a longtime Russia expert who retired in 2017 as the State Department’s coordinator for sanctions policy. “Trump wouldn’t have been interested.”

Next Comes the Tricky Part

Putin might still attack, of course, which would raise questions about the White House’s strategy. And he has options short of war, too: Annexing parts of Ukraine. Squeezing Kyiv economically. Wielding Russia’s energy resources to divide European countries. Launching cyberattacks. Forcing up the price of oil.

Giving Putin an off-ramp could require a painful, protracted negotiating process, potentially leading to accusations that the United States is feeding Ukraine to the Russian wolf.

Building a cross-aisle coalition in Washington won’t be easy, either.

On Tuesday, as discussions on a bipartisan bill to penalize Russia broke down, the best Congress could cobble together was a statement expressing solidarity with Ukraine. Two of the holdouts were Cotton and Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, both of whom harbor presidential ambitions. Senate Republicans introduced their own punitive legislation — the Never Yielding Europe’s Territory, or NYET Act, a rhetorical flourish in the form of a bill that would halt Nord Stream 2, a Baltic Sea gas pipeline meant to bypass Ukraine.

The proposal was a reminder that Republicans have a megaphone but no real responsibility. And in an election year, national security can get political in a hurry.

Don’t Expect a Ukraine Bump

Historically, any effect that foreign crises have on public opinion tends to be ephemeral.

After John F. Kennedy led the United States out of the Cuban missile crisis, his approval rating soared to 76%. By the time of his assassination a year later, it had fallen to the upper 50s. George H.W. Bush’s approval rating reached 89% after the first Gulf War, but it sank to 29% as the economy slumped, and he lost reelection to Bill Clinton. Killing Osama bin Laden bought Barack Obama about a month of buoyant poll numbers, at most.

But when things go wrong abroad, the damage to a president’s credibility can be devastating. Lyndon B. Johnson declined to run for reelection after the Tet Offensive in Vietnam helped drive his approval ratings into the mid-30s. The seizure of U.S. hostages in Iran paralyzed Jimmy Carter, contributing to his defeat in 1980. And although George W. Bush was reelected in 2004, Iraq haunted the remainder of his presidency.

David Axelrod, a former senior adviser to Obama, said that Biden has been “very smart, strong and deliberate” on Ukraine. “Even as most Americans are focused closer to home,” he added, “‘smart, strong and deliberate’ are welcome adjectives for this president after a challenging six months.”

Should Putin gain the upper hand, though, history’s judgment could be harsh. And even if things go well, some question the wisdom of devoting so much attention to a region that represents the geopolitical past, not its future.

“We have to focus on China,” said Elbridge Colby, a former Pentagon official in the Trump administration. “The military situation in Asia is increasingly acute, and we’re way behind. Russia’s a secondary issue.”

America’s chaotic exit from Afghanistan last year was a made-for-TV tragedy — complete with camera-ready scenes of frantic civilians, harried US Marines and helicopters hovering over an embassy roof.

America’s chaotic exit from Afghanistan last year was a made-for-TV tragedy — complete with camera-ready scenes of frantic civilians, harried US Marines and helicopters hovering over an embassy roof. Ukraine is a foreign policy conundrum of an entirely different sort. President Joe Biden’s task is to stop a war from beginning, not to end one with dignity. But even if he wards off a Russian invasion, he shouldn’t expect any ticker tape on Fifth Avenue. “The politics of foreign policy are rarely fair, and this is the epitome of that kind of situation,” said John Gans, a former Pentagon speechwriter in the Obama administration. “You rarely get credit for the dogs that don’t bark.” Our New York Times colleagues have been all over the national security aspects of the showdown with Moscow, including the latest news developments, with reporting by Julian E. Barnes and Helene Cooper on how the White House is trying to outfox Russia, and Michael Crowley’s look at Biden’s calculations. But this is a political newsletter, so we must ask a crass question: Can Ukraine help Biden win back some of the public trust he lost after the Afghanistan pullout? In conversations in recent days with current and former officials, members of Congress and Capitol Hill aides, we found broad support overall for Biden’s approach to Ukraine, although some Republicans complained about specific aspects of the strategy. But the president’s options for resolving the crisis, many said, could give critics an opening. And, as Biden warned in his remarks Tuesday, confronting Vladimir Putin is not likely to be “painless” for Americans, even if Russia relents. Quieting the Doubters For the moment, Biden has faced some criticism on the right, but there’s been no sustained chorus of rebukes from either party. Republicans aren’t speaking with one voice. They are split between those, like Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, who are agitating for a harder line against Moscow, and skeptics like Tucker Carlson of Fox News who say that Ukraine is not America’s problem. The party in 2018 lost its most prominent hawk, Sen. John McCain of Arizona, while its current leader, Donald Trump, makes for a less than ideal messenger when it comes to Russia. The White House has also kept leading progressives on board. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., has praised the administration for “doing its best walking a very difficult tightrope,” while Democratic Sens. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Jeff Merkley of Oregon told HuffPost that they support Biden’s strategy. Unlike with Afghanistan, criticism from the foreign policy establishment has been muted. “I think they started with a bit of an analytical mistake — that they could have a stable and predictable relationship with Russia so they could focus on China,” said Michael McFaul, a former ambassador to Russia in the Obama administration. “But, generally, I’m impressed.” Since November, the administration has held more than 300 “diplomatic engagements” with partners and allies. Biden has sent troops to bolster jittery NATO allies in Eastern Europe. And the White House has used information as a weapon of deterrence, declassifying and disclosing intelligence to disrupt possible Russian operations in real-time. Andrea Kendall-Taylor, a former deputy national intelligence officer for Russia, described this as an effort to “build a common threat picture.” That much has worked so far. European countries that might otherwise have gone wobbly, notably Germany, have agreed to impose severe sanctions should Putin decide to invade. “Trump couldn’t have done this,” said Daniel Fried, a longtime Russia expert who retired in 2017 as the State Department’s coordinator for sanctions policy. “Trump wouldn’t have been interested.” Next Comes the Tricky Part Putin might still attack, of course, which would raise questions about the White House’s strategy. And he has options short of war, too: Annexing parts of Ukraine. Squeezing Kyiv economically. Wielding Russia’s energy resources to divide European countries. Launching cyberattacks. Forcing up the price of oil. Giving Putin an off-ramp could require a painful, protracted negotiating process, potentially leading to accusations that the United States is feeding Ukraine to the Russian wolf. Building a cross-aisle coalition in Washington won’t be easy, either. On Tuesday, as discussions on a bipartisan bill to penalize Russia broke down, the best Congress could cobble together was a statement expressing solidarity with Ukraine. Two of the holdouts were Cotton and Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, both of whom harbor presidential ambitions. Senate Republicans introduced their own punitive legislation — the Never Yielding Europe’s Territory, or NYET Act, a rhetorical flourish in the form of a bill that would halt Nord Stream 2, a Baltic Sea gas pipeline meant to bypass Ukraine. The proposal was a reminder that Republicans have a megaphone but no real responsibility. And in an election year, national security can get political in a hurry. Don’t Expect a Ukraine Bump Historically, any effect that foreign crises have on public opinion tends to be ephemeral. After John F. Kennedy led the United States out of the Cuban missile crisis, his approval rating soared to 76%. By the time of his assassination a year later, it had fallen to the upper 50s. George H.W. Bush’s approval rating reached 89% after the first Gulf War, but it sank to 29% as the economy slumped, and he lost reelection to Bill Clinton. Killing Osama bin Laden bought Barack Obama about a month of buoyant poll numbers, at most. But when things go wrong abroad, the damage to a president’s credibility can be devastating. Lyndon B. Johnson declined to run for reelection after the Tet Offensive in Vietnam helped drive his approval ratings into the mid-30s. The seizure of U.S. hostages in Iran paralyzed Jimmy Carter, contributing to his defeat in 1980. And although George W. Bush was reelected in 2004, Iraq haunted the remainder of his presidency. David Axelrod, a former senior adviser to Obama, said that Biden has been “very smart, strong and deliberate” on Ukraine. “Even as most Americans are focused closer to home,” he added, “‘smart, strong and deliberate’ are welcome adjectives for this president after a challenging six months.” Should Putin gain the upper hand, though, history’s judgment could be harsh. And even if things go well, some question the wisdom of devoting so much attention to a region that represents the geopolitical past, not its future. “We have to focus on China,” said Elbridge Colby, a former Pentagon official in the Trump administration. “The military situation in Asia is increasingly acute, and we’re way behind. Russia’s a secondary issue.”

On Ukraine crisis, Biden seeks to show his mettle

Amid speculation of an imminent attack on Ukraine, Putin's press secretary Dmitry Peskov said the Russian president "sometimes even jokes about it, asking if the exact time when the war is to be unleashed has been announced."

The US has repeatedly said over the past month that Russia is ready to launch an attack on Ukraine with over 100,000 troops amassed at the border.

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Peskov however dismissed it as "obsessive media lunacy around this topic" declaring that it "cannot be met with understanding".

A report claimed Russia was ready to launch an invasion as early as Tuesday with another report asserting that the attack may begin on February 16.

Watch: Russian attack on Wednesday?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-russia-conflict-wednesday-the-day-of-attack-453590/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan had said there was no information whether Russia had made the "final decision". The White House had said last month that a Russian&nbsp;attack on Ukraine could take place between mid-January to mid-February.

British defence secretary Ben Wallace had told a British newspaper that there is a "whiff of Munich in the air from some in the West," referring to German Nazi leader Adolf Hitler who was handed parts of Czechoslovakia as part of the Munich agreement in 1938 in an attempt to stave off war in Europe.

Dmitry Polyanskiy, Russia's deputy ambassador to the UN while dismissing reports of a Russian invasion said: "I think they need to have a good doctor, I recommend them to do it. A specialist on such paranoia cases." &nbsp;

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"I don't know about the numbers, because there are a lot of speculations about it," Polyanskiy said on troop deployment along Ukraine's border.

"I think the training with Belarus would be over in one week's time. For the rest, I don't know," Polyanskiy added even as Russia announced it was pulling back some troops after the drills.

The US said Russia should show proof of "de-escalation" as President Biden warned that a Russian attack on Ukraine was still a "possibility".

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid speculation of an imminent attack on Ukraine, Putin's press secretary Dmitry Peskov said the Russian president "sometimes even jokes about it, asking if the exact time when the war is to be unleashed has been announced.

Amid speculation of an imminent attack on Ukraine, Putin's press secretary Dmitry Peskov said the Russian president "sometimes even jokes about it, asking if the exact time when the war is to be unleashed has been announced." The US has repeatedly said over the past month that Russia is ready to launch an attack on Ukraine with over 100,000 troops amassed at the border. Also Read in Pics: Russia's 'Dagger': Kinzhal hypersonic missiles can degrade high value targets Peskov however dismissed it as "obsessive media lunacy around this topic" declaring that it "cannot be met with understanding". A report claimed Russia was ready to launch an invasion as early as Tuesday with another report asserting that the attack may begin on February 16. Watch: Russian attack on Wednesday? US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan had said there was no information whether Russia had made the "final decision". The White House had said last month that a Russian attack on Ukraine could take place between mid-January to mid-February. British defence secretary Ben Wallace had told a British newspaper that there is a "whiff of Munich in the air from some in the West," referring to German Nazi leader Adolf Hitler who was handed parts of Czechoslovakia as part of the Munich agreement in 1938 in an attempt to stave off war in Europe. Dmitry Polyanskiy, Russia's deputy ambassador to the UN while dismissing reports of a Russian invasion said: "I think they need to have a good doctor, I recommend them to do it. A specialist on such paranoia cases." Also Read in Pics| Ukraine's challenge: How Russia uses Spetsnaz as 'tip of the spear' "I don't know about the numbers, because there are a lot of speculations about it," Polyanskiy said on troop deployment along Ukraine's border. "I think the training with Belarus would be over in one week's time. For the rest, I don't know," Polyanskiy added even as Russia announced it was pulling back some troops after the drills. The US said Russia should show proof of "de-escalation" as President Biden warned that a Russian attack on Ukraine was still a "possibility". (With inputs from Agencies)

'Lunacy': Putin even jokes about it, says press secretary on Ukraine invasion

As Russia said it was&nbsp;pulling back some troops, US President Joe Biden cautioned that an attack on Ukraine is "very much" possible.

The US president added that the pullback of Russian troops from Ukraine's border has "not yet verified" while adding that&nbsp;"analysts indicate that they remain very much in a threatening position."&nbsp;

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Biden said the United States is "ready to go" with large scale sanctions although he added that "we should give the diplomacy every chance to succeed."

Meanwhile, US secretary of state Anthony Blinken in a phone call to Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said there needs to be "verifiable, credible, meaningful de-escalation".

Watch:&nbsp;What will China do if Russia invades Ukraine?

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"While further Russian aggression against Ukraine would result in a swift, severe, and united Transatlantic response, we remain committed to the diplomatic path," Blinken told Lavrov as Russia announced on Tuesday that it was pulling back some troops after they finished the military drills.

The French president's office echoed the US thoughts as it added that de-escalation should be &nbsp;"verified and consolidated" while adding that &nbsp;"Russian military deployment remains very impressive".&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, reports said websites linked to Ukraine's defence ministry and armed forces came under cyber attack amid fears of a Russian invasion.

Ukraine's state bank sites were also hit by cyberattacks. The defence ministry site reportedly showed an error message showing "undergoing technical maintenance".

Ukraine's communications watchdog while pointing to Russia said: "It cannot be excluded that the aggressor is resorting to dirty tricks."

Ukraine was earlier hit by a cyberattack a month ago when some government sites had come under cyber attack. NATO had at the time announced a cyber warfare cooperation deal with Ukraine in response.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As Russia said it was pulling back some troops, US President Joe Biden cautioned that an attack on Ukraine is "very much" possible. The US president added that the pullback of Russian troops from Ukraine's border has "not yet verified" while adding that "analysts indicate that they remain very much in a threatening position.

As Russia said it was pulling back some troops, US President Joe Biden cautioned that an attack on Ukraine is "very much" possible. The US president added that the pullback of Russian troops from Ukraine's border has "not yet verified" while adding that "analysts indicate that they remain very much in a threatening position." Also Read in Pics: Skyfall, Avangard, Sarmat: Russia's new killer 'superpower' weapons revealed Biden said the United States is "ready to go" with large scale sanctions although he added that "we should give the diplomacy every chance to succeed." Meanwhile, US secretary of state Anthony Blinken in a phone call to Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said there needs to be "verifiable, credible, meaningful de-escalation". Watch: What will China do if Russia invades Ukraine? "While further Russian aggression against Ukraine would result in a swift, severe, and united Transatlantic response, we remain committed to the diplomatic path," Blinken told Lavrov as Russia announced on Tuesday that it was pulling back some troops after they finished the military drills. The French president's office echoed the US thoughts as it added that de-escalation should be "verified and consolidated" while adding that "Russian military deployment remains very impressive". Also Read in Pics: Target Ukraine: US F-35 vs Russian Air Force SU-57 jets, who wins? Meanwhile, reports said websites linked to Ukraine's defence ministry and armed forces came under cyber attack amid fears of a Russian invasion. Ukraine's state bank sites were also hit by cyberattacks. The defence ministry site reportedly showed an error message showing "undergoing technical maintenance". Ukraine's communications watchdog while pointing to Russia said: "It cannot be excluded that the aggressor is resorting to dirty tricks." Ukraine was earlier hit by a cyberattack a month ago when some government sites had come under cyber attack. NATO had at the time announced a cyber warfare cooperation deal with Ukraine in response. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russian attack on Ukraine still possible, warns Biden

Amid moves to broker peace with Russia over the Ukraine crisis, the US State Department said that Russian forces continue to arrive at the Ukrainian border.

"It is a distinct possibility, perhaps more real than ever before, that Russia may decide to proceed with military action," US State Department spokesman Ned Price said, adding, "an invasion, as we have said, could begin at any time."

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Meanwhile, the Pentagon said US defence secretary Lloyd Austin will leave for Europe for crisis talks and will visit the NATO headquarters and visit Poland with US troops deployed in the region. &nbsp;

Austin will also meet Lithuanian leaders and host defence ministers of Baltic states namely Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia who increasingly feel threatened by Russia's moves in Ukraine.

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine bets on drones to 'outsmart' Russia

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Pentagon spokesman Lloyd Austin added that "we still don't believe that some final decision has been made."

However, Austin added that "military action could happen any day," while asserting that, "it is entirely possible that he could move with little to no warning."

"We believe that diplomacy continues to be viable," State Department spokesperson Price said. Several nations have recalled embassy officials from Kyiv and ordered citizens to evacuate from the region amid escalation of the crisis. Dutch airways KLM had earlier suspended flights to Ukraine until further notice.

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Amid the escalating crisis, the UK government said there is still a &nbsp;"crucial window for diplomacy" while urging Russia to "step back" from invasion threats towards Ukraine.

Several European nations including France have warned Putin's regime against invading Ukraine with the threat of crippling sanctions on Russia.

Putin has repeatedly dismissed reports of an invasion even as over 100,000 troops have massed at the Ukraine border with&nbsp;heavy artillery, tanks and missile launchers.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid moves to broker peace with Russia over the Ukraine crisis, the US State Department said that Russian forces continue to arrive at the Ukrainian border. "It is a distinct possibility, perhaps more real than ever before, that Russia may decide to proceed with military action," US State Department spokesman Ned Price said, adding, "an invasion, as we have said, could begin at any time.

Amid moves to broker peace with Russia over the Ukraine crisis, the US State Department said that Russian forces continue to arrive at the Ukrainian border. "It is a distinct possibility, perhaps more real than ever before, that Russia may decide to proceed with military action," US State Department spokesman Ned Price said, adding, "an invasion, as we have said, could begin at any time." Also Read in Pics | How Russia's Kinzhal hypersonic missiles can degrade high value targets Meanwhile, the Pentagon said US defence secretary Lloyd Austin will leave for Europe for crisis talks and will visit the NATO headquarters and visit Poland with US troops deployed in the region. Austin will also meet Lithuanian leaders and host defence ministers of Baltic states namely Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia who increasingly feel threatened by Russia's moves in Ukraine. Watch: Ukraine bets on drones to 'outsmart' Russia Pentagon spokesman Lloyd Austin added that "we still don't believe that some final decision has been made." However, Austin added that "military action could happen any day," while asserting that, "it is entirely possible that he could move with little to no warning." "We believe that diplomacy continues to be viable," State Department spokesperson Price said. Several nations have recalled embassy officials from Kyiv and ordered citizens to evacuate from the region amid escalation of the crisis. Dutch airways KLM had earlier suspended flights to Ukraine until further notice. Also Read in Pics| Ukraine's challenge: How Russia uses Spetsnaz as 'tip of the spear' Amid the escalating crisis, the UK government said there is still a "crucial window for diplomacy" while urging Russia to "step back" from invasion threats towards Ukraine. Several European nations including France have warned Putin's regime against invading Ukraine with the threat of crippling sanctions on Russia. Putin has repeatedly dismissed reports of an invasion even as over 100,000 troops have massed at the Ukraine border with heavy artillery, tanks and missile launchers. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russian forces continue to arrive at the Ukrainian border, warns US

After decades of getting schooled in information warfare by President Vladimir Putin of Russia, the United States is trying to beat the master at his own game.

The Biden administration has detailed the movement of Russian special operation forces to Ukraine’s borders, exposed a Russian plan to create a video of a faked atrocity as a pretext for an invasion, outlined Moscow’s war plans, warned that an invasion would result in possibly thousands of deaths and hinted that Russian officers had doubts about Putin.

Then, on Friday, Jake Sullivan, President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, told reporters that the United States was seeing signs of Russian escalation and that there was a “credible prospect” of immediate military action.

All told, the extraordinary series of disclosures has amounted to one of the most aggressive releases of intelligence by the United States since the Cuban missile crisis, current and former officials say.

It is an unusual gambit, in part because Biden has repeatedly made clear that he has no intention of sending US&nbsp;troops to defend Ukraine. In effect, the administration is warning the world of an urgent threat — not to make the case for a war, but to try to prevent one.

The hope is that disclosing Putin’s plans will disrupt them, perhaps delaying an invasion and buying more time for diplomacy or even giving Putin a chance to reconsider the political, economic and human costs of an invasion.

At the same time, Biden administration officials said they had a narrower and more realistic goal: They want to make it more difficult for Putin to justify an invasion with lies, undercutting his standing on the global stage and building support for a tougher response.

Intelligence agencies, prodded by the White House, have declassified information, which in turn has been briefed to Congress, shared with reporters and discussed by Pentagon and State Department spokespeople.

The last time Russia moved against Ukraine, in 2014, intelligence officials blocked the Obama administration from sharing what they knew. But the Biden administration has studied those mistakes.

“We have learned a lot, especially since 2014, about how Russia uses the information space as part of its overall security and military apparatus,” said Emily Horne, spokesperson for the National Security Council. “And we have learned a lot about how to deny them some impact in that space.”

After decades of getting schooled in information warfare by President Vladimir Putin of Russia, the United States is trying to beat the master at his own game. The Biden administration has detailed the movement of Russian special operation forces to Ukraine’s borders, exposed a Russian plan to create a video of a faked atrocity as a pretext for an invasion, outlined Moscow’s war plans, warned that an invasion would result in possibly thousands of deaths and hinted that Russian officers had doubts about Putin.

After decades of getting schooled in information warfare by President Vladimir Putin of Russia, the United States is trying to beat the master at his own game. The Biden administration has detailed the movement of Russian special operation forces to Ukraine’s borders, exposed a Russian plan to create a video of a faked atrocity as a pretext for an invasion, outlined Moscow’s war plans, warned that an invasion would result in possibly thousands of deaths and hinted that Russian officers had doubts about Putin. Then, on Friday, Jake Sullivan, President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, told reporters that the United States was seeing signs of Russian escalation and that there was a “credible prospect” of immediate military action. All told, the extraordinary series of disclosures has amounted to one of the most aggressive releases of intelligence by the United States since the Cuban missile crisis, current and former officials say. It is an unusual gambit, in part because Biden has repeatedly made clear that he has no intention of sending US troops to defend Ukraine. In effect, the administration is warning the world of an urgent threat — not to make the case for a war, but to try to prevent one. The hope is that disclosing Putin’s plans will disrupt them, perhaps delaying an invasion and buying more time for diplomacy or even giving Putin a chance to reconsider the political, economic and human costs of an invasion. At the same time, Biden administration officials said they had a narrower and more realistic goal: They want to make it more difficult for Putin to justify an invasion with lies, undercutting his standing on the global stage and building support for a tougher response. Intelligence agencies, prodded by the White House, have declassified information, which in turn has been briefed to Congress, shared with reporters and discussed by Pentagon and State Department spokespeople. The last time Russia moved against Ukraine, in 2014, intelligence officials blocked the Obama administration from sharing what they knew. But the Biden administration has studied those mistakes. “We have learned a lot, especially since 2014, about how Russia uses the information space as part of its overall security and military apparatus,” said Emily Horne, spokesperson for the National Security Council. “And we have learned a lot about how to deny them some impact in that space.”

US battles Putin by disclosing his next possible moves

Ukraine leader Volodymyr Zelensky urged US President Joe Biden to visit Kyiv to "stabilise" the situation with Ukraine and send a "powerful signal" amid tensions with Russia at the border.

Germany said the responsibility of risk of war lay with Putin's regime as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said there was a "serious threat to peace in Europe". The German Chancellor will be travelling to Kyiv to meet President Zelensky and then he will be in Moscow to meet President Putin.

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Germany expressed mounting concerns over Russia's plan to invade Ukraine, although Putin has repeatedly said he has no plans to invade the country. The US has said there are over 100,000 troops amassed at the Ukraine border including tanks, artillery and missiles.

Amid hectic diplomatic efforts, the UK government said it will be making a fresh bid to defuse Russia's row with Ukraine in the coming weeks as Downing Street pointed out that the crisis had reached a "critical juncture".

Watch:&nbsp;Russia vs Ukraine: How do the armies compare?

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"All the information we have suggests Russia could be planning an invasion of Ukraine at any moment," the Downing Street spokesman said while adding that it could lead to "disastrous consequences" for both Ukraine and Russia.

Several countries including Britain, Ireland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Japan, Israel, Saudi Arabia and UAE have asked their citizens to leave Ukraine even as Russia has recalled some of its diplomatic staff over what it called fears of "provocations".

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Dutch airlines KLM said it would be suspending flights to Ukraine till further notice as Canada said it was closing its embassy temporarily in Kyiv and Romania withdrew non-essential personnel from its embassy in Kyiv.

US national security advisor Jake Sullivan said&nbsp;"a major military action could begin by Russia in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;any day now" while adding that it could&nbsp;start with "a significant barrage of missiles and bomb attacks and&nbsp;innocent civilians could be killed" even as both Germany and the United States threatened sanctions.

The US State Department over the weekend also asked its non-emergency embassy staff to leave Ukraine.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine leader Volodymyr Zelensky urged US President Joe Biden to visit Kyiv to "stabilise" the situation with Ukraine and send a "powerful signal" amid tensions with Russia at the border.

Ukraine leader Volodymyr Zelensky urged US President Joe Biden to visit Kyiv to "stabilise" the situation with Ukraine and send a "powerful signal" amid tensions with Russia at the border. Germany said the responsibility of risk of war lay with Putin's regime as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said there was a "serious threat to peace in Europe". The German Chancellor will be travelling to Kyiv to meet President Zelensky and then he will be in Moscow to meet President Putin. Also Read in Pics: Russia's 'checkmate': Why the Orion combat drone is a gamechanger Germany expressed mounting concerns over Russia's plan to invade Ukraine, although Putin has repeatedly said he has no plans to invade the country. The US has said there are over 100,000 troops amassed at the Ukraine border including tanks, artillery and missiles. Amid hectic diplomatic efforts, the UK government said it will be making a fresh bid to defuse Russia's row with Ukraine in the coming weeks as Downing Street pointed out that the crisis had reached a "critical juncture". Watch: Russia vs Ukraine: How do the armies compare? "All the information we have suggests Russia could be planning an invasion of Ukraine at any moment," the Downing Street spokesman said while adding that it could lead to "disastrous consequences" for both Ukraine and Russia. Several countries including Britain, Ireland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Japan, Israel, Saudi Arabia and UAE have asked their citizens to leave Ukraine even as Russia has recalled some of its diplomatic staff over what it called fears of "provocations". Also Read in Pics | Tsirkon 'serial production': Russia's race for hypersonic missiles revealed Dutch airlines KLM said it would be suspending flights to Ukraine till further notice as Canada said it was closing its embassy temporarily in Kyiv and Romania withdrew non-essential personnel from its embassy in Kyiv. US national security advisor Jake Sullivan said "a major military action could begin by Russia in Ukraine any day now" while adding that it could start with "a significant barrage of missiles and bomb attacks and innocent civilians could be killed" even as both Germany and the United States threatened sanctions. The US State Department over the weekend also asked its non-emergency embassy staff to leave Ukraine. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia could begin military action in Ukraine any day now: US national security advisor Jake Sullivan

The Ukraine-Russia talks have failed to produce a breakthrough, Ukraine's chief of staff said in Berlin, even as US President Joe Biden urged American citizens to leave Ukraine immediately.

"We're dealing with one of the largest armies in the world. This is a very different situation and things could go crazy quickly," President Biden told a television channel.

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The US president said he won't be sending US troops to Ukraine, adding, "That's a world war. When Americans and Russians start shooting one another, we're in a very different world."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as Russia began its naval exercise, Ukraine said Putin's regime was engaging in a "hybrid war" since it made navigation in the Black Sea and Azov Sea virtually impossible.

Watch:&nbsp;How has Putin surrounded Ukraine?

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"Such aggressive actions by the Russian Federation as part of its hybrid war against Ukraine are unacceptable," Ukraine's foreign ministry said.

The ministry added that it is an "unjustified complication of international shipping, especially trade which can cause complex economic and social consequences, especially for the ports of Ukraine."

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Russia is holding drills in the Black Sea this month with six warships even as it conducts&nbsp;military drills north of Ukraine in Belarus.

US Joint chiefs of staff General Mark Milley spoke with the Belarus general staff of the armed forces Major General Gulevich in a bid to keep the communication channels going and to avoid any "miscalculation" amid the joint drills.

The United States says Russia is planning to invade Ukraine with over 100,000 troops amassed at the border, however, Putin has dismissed the report but the&nbsp;Russian president has insisted his troops can move around freely anywhere inside their territory.

(With inputs from Agencies)

The Ukraine-Russia talks have failed to produce a breakthrough, Ukraine's chief of staff said in Berlin, even as US President Joe Biden urged American citizens to leave Ukraine immediately.

The Ukraine-Russia talks have failed to produce a breakthrough, Ukraine's chief of staff said in Berlin, even as US President Joe Biden urged American citizens to leave Ukraine immediately. "We're dealing with one of the largest armies in the world. This is a very different situation and things could go crazy quickly," President Biden told a television channel. Also Read in Pics: Skyfall, Avangard, Sarmat: Russia's new killer 'superpower' weapons revealed The US president said he won't be sending US troops to Ukraine, adding, "That's a world war. When Americans and Russians start shooting one another, we're in a very different world." Meanwhile, as Russia began its naval exercise, Ukraine said Putin's regime was engaging in a "hybrid war" since it made navigation in the Black Sea and Azov Sea virtually impossible. Watch: How has Putin surrounded Ukraine? "Such aggressive actions by the Russian Federation as part of its hybrid war against Ukraine are unacceptable," Ukraine's foreign ministry said. The ministry added that it is an "unjustified complication of international shipping, especially trade which can cause complex economic and social consequences, especially for the ports of Ukraine." Also Read in Pics | Russia's 'checkmate': Why the Orion combat drone is a gamechanger Russia is holding drills in the Black Sea this month with six warships even as it conducts military drills north of Ukraine in Belarus. US Joint chiefs of staff General Mark Milley spoke with the Belarus general staff of the armed forces Major General Gulevich in a bid to keep the communication channels going and to avoid any "miscalculation" amid the joint drills. The United States says Russia is planning to invade Ukraine with over 100,000 troops amassed at the border, however, Putin has dismissed the report but the Russian president has insisted his troops can move around freely anywhere inside their territory. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Things could go crazy': Ukraine accuses Russia of 'hybrid war' amid naval drill

The Pentagon said today that Russia may "fabricate a pretext for an invasion" against Ukraine.

"As part of this fake attack, we believe that Russia would produce a very graphic propaganda video, which would include corpses and actors that would be depicting mourners and images of destroyed locations," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.

However, US officials said the latest development was reported by intelligence sources while adding that there&nbsp;were no videos available at the moment.

The spokesman said, "I'm not going to spell out what is in our possession" even as Russia condemned American troop deployments in the region.

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The United States has been warning for months that Russia is planning an invasion against Ukraine while massing thousands of troops at the border. President Putin has repeatedly denied any invasion plans while insisting that Russian troops have the right the move around anywhere inside their own territory.

Watch: Gravitas |&nbsp;US deploys 3,000 soldiers to Europe

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"We've seen these kinds of activity by the Russians in the past and we believe it's important when we see it like this that we can call it out," Kirby said, adding,"I would just say that our experience is that very little of this nature is not approved at the highest levels of the Russian government."

Pentagon said Russia is planning to "initiate and potentially justify military aggression against Ukraine" by developing a "fake pretext". Russia however dismissed reports of trying to manufacture a conflict.

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"It's obvious that these are not steps aimed at de-escalating tensions, but on the contrary, they are actions that lead to increasing tensions," Kremlin spokesman said referring to the Biden administration's decision to send 3,000 troops to Poland and Romania.&nbsp;

The Kremlin spokesman added that Russian officials have been trying to "call on American counterparts to stop aggravating tensions", but "unfortunately, the Americans continue to do so".

Amid escalating tensions, NATO chief Stoltenberg said more Russian troops had arrived in Belarus with both countries conducting joint drills, asserting that it was the &nbsp;"biggest Russian deployment there since the Cold War".

(With inputs from Agencies)

The Pentagon said today that Russia may "fabricate a pretext for an invasion" against Ukraine. "As part of this fake attack, we believe that Russia would produce a very graphic propaganda video, which would include corpses and actors that would be depicting mourners and images of destroyed locations," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.

The Pentagon said today that Russia may "fabricate a pretext for an invasion" against Ukraine. "As part of this fake attack, we believe that Russia would produce a very graphic propaganda video, which would include corpses and actors that would be depicting mourners and images of destroyed locations," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said. However, US officials said the latest development was reported by intelligence sources while adding that there were no videos available at the moment. The spokesman said, "I'm not going to spell out what is in our possession" even as Russia condemned American troop deployments in the region. Also Read in Pics: Skyfall, Avangard, Sarmat: Russia's new killer 'superpower' weapons revealed The United States has been warning for months that Russia is planning an invasion against Ukraine while massing thousands of troops at the border. President Putin has repeatedly denied any invasion plans while insisting that Russian troops have the right the move around anywhere inside their own territory. Watch: Gravitas | US deploys 3,000 soldiers to Europe "We've seen these kinds of activity by the Russians in the past and we believe it's important when we see it like this that we can call it out," Kirby said, adding,"I would just say that our experience is that very little of this nature is not approved at the highest levels of the Russian government." Pentagon said Russia is planning to "initiate and potentially justify military aggression against Ukraine" by developing a "fake pretext". Russia however dismissed reports of trying to manufacture a conflict. Also Read in Pics | Russia's 'checkmate': Why the Orion combat drone is a gamechanger "It's obvious that these are not steps aimed at de-escalating tensions, but on the contrary, they are actions that lead to increasing tensions," Kremlin spokesman said referring to the Biden administration's decision to send 3,000 troops to Poland and Romania. The Kremlin spokesman added that Russian officials have been trying to "call on American counterparts to stop aggravating tensions", but "unfortunately, the Americans continue to do so". Amid escalating tensions, NATO chief Stoltenberg said more Russian troops had arrived in Belarus with both countries conducting joint drills, asserting that it was the "biggest Russian deployment there since the Cold War". (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia will produce graphic propaganda video as pretext for an invasion against Ukraine: US

Amid escalating tensions with Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin said the West is ignoring "fundamental Russian concerns".

"It is already clear that fundamental Russian concerns ended up being ignored," Putin said even as NATO and US rejected Russia's security document.

The Kremlin had submitted a security document last month in which it said the European military alliance should not induct Ukraine into its fold, a demand which was rejected by the Biden administration including NATO.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/skyfall-avangard-sarmat-russias-new-killer-superpower-weapons-revealed-448724">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Skyfall, Avangard, Sarmat: Russia's new killer 'superpower' weapons revealed</a>

"It seems to me that the United States is not so much concerned about the security of Ukraine," Putin said, adding,"Ukraine itself is just a tool to achieve this goal."

The Russian president added that the US was trying "different ways", saying: "Drawing us into some kind of armed conflict. And to force, among other things, their allies in Europe to impose the tough sanctions against us that the United States is talking about."

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine President signs decree to increase army strength&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-president-zelensky-signs-decree-to-increase-army-strength-by-100000-troops-in-3-years-449661/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US and Ukraine have&nbsp;warned for months that Russia has massed thousands of troops at the border in order to invade Kyiv, however, Putin has maintained his forces have no invasion plans while asserting that Russian troops are free to move anywhere inside their territory.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken once again urged Russia to "de-escalate" tensions and pullback troops even as his Russian counterpart foreign minister Lavrov said he was ready for further discussions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-weapons-has-ukraine-received-from-western-countries-to-resist-russias-army-449650#united-states-449637">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What weapons has Ukraine received from Western countries to resist Russia's army?</a>

Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Russian forces were a "clear and present danger" for Ukraine while urging Russia to step back even as UK foreign secretary Liz Truss said the Johnson government was putting together "the toughest sanctions regime against Russia we've ever had".

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid escalating tensions with Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin said the West is ignoring "fundamental Russian concerns". "It is already clear that fundamental Russian concerns ended up being ignored," Putin said even as NATO and US rejected Russia's security document.

Amid escalating tensions with Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin said the West is ignoring "fundamental Russian concerns". "It is already clear that fundamental Russian concerns ended up being ignored," Putin said even as NATO and US rejected Russia's security document. The Kremlin had submitted a security document last month in which it said the European military alliance should not induct Ukraine into its fold, a demand which was rejected by the Biden administration including NATO. Also Read in Pics: Skyfall, Avangard, Sarmat: Russia's new killer 'superpower' weapons revealed "It seems to me that the United States is not so much concerned about the security of Ukraine," Putin said, adding,"Ukraine itself is just a tool to achieve this goal." The Russian president added that the US was trying "different ways", saying: "Drawing us into some kind of armed conflict. And to force, among other things, their allies in Europe to impose the tough sanctions against us that the United States is talking about." Watch: Ukraine President signs decree to increase army strength The US and Ukraine have warned for months that Russia has massed thousands of troops at the border in order to invade Kyiv, however, Putin has maintained his forces have no invasion plans while asserting that Russian troops are free to move anywhere inside their territory. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken once again urged Russia to "de-escalate" tensions and pullback troops even as his Russian counterpart foreign minister Lavrov said he was ready for further discussions. Also Read in Pics: What weapons has Ukraine received from Western countries to resist Russia's army? Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Russian forces were a "clear and present danger" for Ukraine while urging Russia to step back even as UK foreign secretary Liz Truss said the Johnson government was putting together "the toughest sanctions regime against Russia we've ever had". (With inputs from Agencies)

US drawing Russia into some kind of armed conflict, says President Putin

Amid&nbsp;Russia continues to mass troops along Ukraine's border, US President in a statement at the UNSC said Putin's regime will "face swift and severe consequences" if it walked away from diplomacy and decided to invade Ukraine.

"If Russia is sincere about addressing our respective security concerns through dialogue, the United States and our allies and partners will continue to engage in good faith,"&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;said, adding,"if instead Russia chooses to walk away from diplomacy and attack Ukraine, Russia will bear the responsibility, and it will face swift and severe consequences."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-who-says-we-have-100000-troops-at-border-russia-asks-in-unsc-449313">Also Read:&nbsp;Ukraine crisis: Who says we have 100,000 troops at border? Russia asks in UNSC</a>&nbsp;

Russia had tried to block the 15-member Security Council from holding the meeting, however,&nbsp;10 out of 15 members backed the Biden administration. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This is the largest&nbsp;mobilization of troops in Europe in decades,"&nbsp;UN envoy Linda Thomas-Greenfield, adding,"and as we speak, Russia is sending even more forces and arms to join them."

Russian ambassador to the UN&nbsp;Vassily Nebenzia urged members at the UNSC to oppose opening the session declaring the US was engaging in "megaphone diplomacy" however,&nbsp;&nbsp;10 members supported keeping the meeting open even as China backed Russia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russian-navy-aircraft-track-down-notional-enemy-submarine-in-norwegian-sea-in-drill-449181">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russian navy, aircraft track down 'notional' enemy submarine in Norwegian Sea</a>

The US has said Russia has massed over 100,000 troops along Ukraine's border, however, Russia lashed out at the UNSC accusing the United States of trying to "whip up hysteria".

Tensions have been on at fewer pitch between the West and Russia since November as reports emerged of Russian troops massed at the border with Ukraine. &nbsp;

Putin's regime had earlier submitted a security document to the US and NATO urging them not to induct former Soviet countries into its military alliance referring to Ukraine. However, the demand was rejected by the United States.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid Russia continues to mass troops along Ukraine's border, US President in a statement at the UNSC said Putin's regime will "face swift and severe consequences" if it walked away from diplomacy and decided to invade Ukraine.

Amid Russia continues to mass troops along Ukraine's border, US President in a statement at the UNSC said Putin's regime will "face swift and severe consequences" if it walked away from diplomacy and decided to invade Ukraine. "If Russia is sincere about addressing our respective security concerns through dialogue, the United States and our allies and partners will continue to engage in good faith," Biden said, adding,"if instead Russia chooses to walk away from diplomacy and attack Ukraine, Russia will bear the responsibility, and it will face swift and severe consequences." Also Read: Ukraine crisis: Who says we have 100,000 troops at border? Russia asks in UNSC Russia had tried to block the 15-member Security Council from holding the meeting, however, 10 out of 15 members backed the Biden administration. This is the largest mobilization of troops in Europe in decades," UN envoy Linda Thomas-Greenfield, adding,"and as we speak, Russia is sending even more forces and arms to join them." Russian ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia urged members at the UNSC to oppose opening the session declaring the US was engaging in "megaphone diplomacy" however, 10 members supported keeping the meeting open even as China backed Russia. Also Read in Pics: Russian navy, aircraft track down 'notional' enemy submarine in Norwegian Sea The US has said Russia has massed over 100,000 troops along Ukraine's border, however, Russia lashed out at the UNSC accusing the United States of trying to "whip up hysteria". Tensions have been on at fewer pitch between the West and Russia since November as reports emerged of Russian troops massed at the border with Ukraine. Putin's regime had earlier submitted a security document to the US and NATO urging them not to induct former Soviet countries into its military alliance referring to Ukraine. However, the demand was rejected by the United States. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia will 'face swift and severe consequences': Biden to Putin at UNSC over Ukraine

Amid tensions with Russia, US President Joe Biden said he would be moving a small number of troops to eastern Europe even as top US general Mark Miley said the consequences of going to war with Russia would be "horrific" for both sides.

However, Ukraine President &nbsp;Volodymyr Zelensky urged leaders to stop "panic" over Russian deployment along its border. President Biden said he would be sending a small number of troops "not too many" after NATO declared it was ready to deploy 8,500 troops at short notice.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-dagger-on-ukraine-kinzhal-hypersonic-missiles-can-degrade-high-value-targets-447431">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia's 'Dagger' on Ukraine: Kinzhal hypersonic missiles can degrade high value targets</a>

US Joint chiefs chairman General Mark Milley, however, warned of consequences adding that a conflict over Ukraine would lead to a "significant amount of casualties" and it would be "horrific" and "terrible".

US defence secretary Lloyd Austin said there was still "space for diplomacy" while adding that "conflict is not inevitable".

Watch:&nbsp;Has Putin overplayed his hand?

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"Mr Putin can do the right thing as well," Austin said, adding, "There is no reason that this situation has to devolve into conflict. He can choose to de-escalate. He can order his troops away."&nbsp;

Russia had submitted a security document to the US and NATO urging them not to induct former Soviet countries into its military alliance referring to Ukraine. The demand was however rejected by the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-checkmate-why-the-orion-combat-drone-is-a-gamechanger-446455">Also Read in Pics|&nbsp;Russia's 'checkmate': Why the Orion combat drone is a gamechanger</a>

In a phone call to French President Macron, Putin said Russia's "fundamental" concerns were not met as the Kremlin added that Western countries had overlooked the "key question" while informing that it would study the response and then "decide on further actions."

Tensions over Russian troop deployment has peaked after the White House warned that Russia is ready to invade Ukraine between mid-January to mid-February. However, in the phone call to Macron, Putin said Russia has "no offensive plans" on Ukraine.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions with Russia, US President Joe Biden said he would be moving a small number of troops to eastern Europe even as top US general Mark Miley said the consequences of going to war with Russia would be "horrific" for both sides.

Amid tensions with Russia, US President Joe Biden said he would be moving a small number of troops to eastern Europe even as top US general Mark Miley said the consequences of going to war with Russia would be "horrific" for both sides. However, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky urged leaders to stop "panic" over Russian deployment along its border. President Biden said he would be sending a small number of troops "not too many" after NATO declared it was ready to deploy 8,500 troops at short notice. Also Read in Pics: Russia's 'Dagger' on Ukraine: Kinzhal hypersonic missiles can degrade high value targets US Joint chiefs chairman General Mark Milley, however, warned of consequences adding that a conflict over Ukraine would lead to a "significant amount of casualties" and it would be "horrific" and "terrible". US defence secretary Lloyd Austin said there was still "space for diplomacy" while adding that "conflict is not inevitable". Watch: Has Putin overplayed his hand? "Mr Putin can do the right thing as well," Austin said, adding, "There is no reason that this situation has to devolve into conflict. He can choose to de-escalate. He can order his troops away." Russia had submitted a security document to the US and NATO urging them not to induct former Soviet countries into its military alliance referring to Ukraine. The demand was however rejected by the United States. Also Read in Pics| Russia's 'checkmate': Why the Orion combat drone is a gamechanger In a phone call to French President Macron, Putin said Russia's "fundamental" concerns were not met as the Kremlin added that Western countries had overlooked the "key question" while informing that it would study the response and then "decide on further actions." Tensions over Russian troop deployment has peaked after the White House warned that Russia is ready to invade Ukraine between mid-January to mid-February. However, in the phone call to Macron, Putin said Russia has "no offensive plans" on Ukraine. (With inputs from Agencies)

US President Biden to move troops to eastern Europe amid Russia tensions

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