Satellite photos show Russian troops deployed near Ukraine border

Russia on Saturday denied reports which claimed Putin's regime was ready to launch an attack on Ukraine with 175,000 troops.

The Washington Post citing US officials reported that Russia was preparing an assault on Ukraine with 100 battalion tactical groups. The report claimed Moscow was planning a multi-front offensive.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Also Read:&nbsp;What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?</a>

The Russian foreign ministry dismissed the report blaming the US for aggravating the situation around Ukraine even as the Pentagon called for de-escalation.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia's military activity near Ukraine a worry, says General Milley

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The current crisis comes as US President Biden prepares to speak to Russian President Putin over the phone on Tuesday.

The US president had said on Friday that his administration was preparing a plan to make it "very, very difficult for Mr Putin to go ahead and do what people are worried he may do."&nbsp;Biden however did not go into the specifics of the plan.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/protests-in-ukraine-as-putin-marks-russias-unity-day-in-crimea-426813">Also Read:&nbsp;Protests in Ukraine as Putin marks Russia's Unity Day in Crimea</a>

Ukraine's defence minister had warned earlier that Russia was preparing to invade in January amid large scale build-up of troops at the border.

On Friday, Putin had hit out against Ukraine's deployment of Turkish drones in a phone call to President Erdogan.

Amid tensions on the Ukrainian border, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov had asked US secretary of state Antony Blinken to provide "security guarantees" that NATO will not extend its borders to Russia even as Ukraine said it won't abandon plans to join the European military alliance.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Russia on Saturday denied reports which claimed Putin's regime was ready to launch an attack on Ukraine with 175,000 troops. The Washington Post citing US officials reported that Russia was preparing an assault on Ukraine with 100 battalion tactical groups.

Russia on Saturday denied reports which claimed Putin's regime was ready to launch an attack on Ukraine with 175,000 troops. The Washington Post citing US officials reported that Russia was preparing an assault on Ukraine with 100 battalion tactical groups. The report claimed Moscow was planning a multi-front offensive. Also Read: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? The Russian foreign ministry dismissed the report blaming the US for aggravating the situation around Ukraine even as the Pentagon called for de-escalation. Watch: Russia's military activity near Ukraine a worry, says General Milley The current crisis comes as US President Biden prepares to speak to Russian President Putin over the phone on Tuesday. The US president had said on Friday that his administration was preparing a plan to make it "very, very difficult for Mr Putin to go ahead and do what people are worried he may do." Biden however did not go into the specifics of the plan. Also Read: Protests in Ukraine as Putin marks Russia's Unity Day in Crimea Ukraine's defence minister had warned earlier that Russia was preparing to invade in January amid large scale build-up of troops at the border. On Friday, Putin had hit out against Ukraine's deployment of Turkish drones in a phone call to President Erdogan. Amid tensions on the Ukrainian border, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov had asked US secretary of state Antony Blinken to provide "security guarantees" that NATO will not extend its borders to Russia even as Ukraine said it won't abandon plans to join the European military alliance. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia planning to invade Ukraine with 175,000 troops: Report

President Putin on Friday took aim at Ukraine for deploying Bayraktar unmanned aerial vehicles produced by Turkey during a call with Turkey's President Erdogan as tensions continued at the Russian-Ukraine border.

US President Joe Biden declared his administration was putting together the "most comprehensive and meaningful set of initiatives" to make it "very, very difficult for Mr. Putin to go ahead and do what people are worried he may do" referring to Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?&nbsp;</a>

Biden informed that US government officials were in touch with European allies over the situation at the Ukraine border.&nbsp;

The move comes even as President Putin is set to speak to the US president over a video link next week. Kremlin announced that the date has been agreed but a formal announcement would be made after confirmation from the US side.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/whats-behind-putins-unpreventable-strike-gambit-russias-new-s-500-missile-defence-system-400849">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What's behind Putin's 'unpreventable strike' gambit</a>

Kyiv has alleged Russia has positioned over 100,000 troops along the border even as Putin has asserted the country has no plans to invade Ukraine and that Russian troops can move around freely anywhere inside its territory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-russia-tested-s-400-missiles-in-crimea-amid-operation-sea-breeze-in-ukraine-395351">Also Read:&nbsp;Why Russia tested S-400 missiles in Crimea amid operation Sea Breeze in Ukraine</a>

Amid tensions, Ukraine's defence minister declared that Russia was ready for escalation in January raising fears of an invasion while informing that the Putin regime had launched exercises along the border and had started "winter training".

The Biden administration had declared earlier that it had evidence that Russia was set to attack Ukraine despite Kremlin's denial.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

President Putin on Friday took aim at Ukraine for deploying Bayraktar unmanned aerial vehicles produced by Turkey during a call with Turkey's President Erdogan as tensions continued at the Russian-Ukraine border.

President Putin on Friday took aim at Ukraine for deploying Bayraktar unmanned aerial vehicles produced by Turkey during a call with Turkey's President Erdogan as tensions continued at the Russian-Ukraine border. US President Joe Biden declared his administration was putting together the "most comprehensive and meaningful set of initiatives" to make it "very, very difficult for Mr. Putin to go ahead and do what people are worried he may do" referring to Ukraine. Also Read in Pics: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? Biden informed that US government officials were in touch with European allies over the situation at the Ukraine border. The move comes even as President Putin is set to speak to the US president over a video link next week. Kremlin announced that the date has been agreed but a formal announcement would be made after confirmation from the US side. Also Read in Pics: What's behind Putin's 'unpreventable strike' gambit Kyiv has alleged Russia has positioned over 100,000 troops along the border even as Putin has asserted the country has no plans to invade Ukraine and that Russian troops can move around freely anywhere inside its territory. Also Read: Why Russia tested S-400 missiles in Crimea amid operation Sea Breeze in Ukraine Amid tensions, Ukraine's defence minister declared that Russia was ready for escalation in January raising fears of an invasion while informing that the Putin regime had launched exercises along the border and had started "winter training". The Biden administration had declared earlier that it had evidence that Russia was set to attack Ukraine despite Kremlin's denial. (With inputs from Agencies)

Biden prepares plan to protect Ukraine; Putin slams drone deployment at border

Ahead of the G7 foreign ministers meet, UK's foreign minister Liz Truss said Russia would be committing a "strategic mistake" if it attacked Ukraine.

Truss said there would be "severe consequences if anything were to happen" referring to Russia's reported plan to attack Ukraine which has been dominated the European agenda in the past month.

The UK foreign minister also expressed concern over the Nordstream 2 natural gas pipeline project.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Read in Pics:&nbsp;What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?</a>

"Nordstream 2 is very important," Truss said, adding, "moving ahead with that in the case of this aggression that we're seeing by Russia with respect to Ukraine would be a problem."

Watch: President Biden reaffirms support for Ukraine in call with Zelenskyy

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President Biden during a virtual summit with President Putin had threatened sanctions if Russia attacked Ukraine with the UK foreign minister retreating that trade ties with London would be hit if the Ukraine situation went out of control.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-jens-stoltenberg-turns-down-russias-demand-to-deny-ukraine-entry-436007">Also Read:&nbsp;NATO chief&nbsp;turns down Russia's demand to deny Ukraine entry</a>

President Biden had spoken to &nbsp;Germany's new chancellor Olaf Scholz on the tensions between Ukraine and Russia.

"We need to come together strongly to stand up to aggressors who are seeking to limit the bounds of freedom and democracy," Truss said.

India, South Korea, Australia and South Africa are set to participate as guests during the G7 summit.

Russia had said earlier that NATO should not allow Georgia and Ukraine into its military alliance and desist from expanding near its border in the east.

"In the fundamental interests of European security, it is necessary to officially disavow the decision of the 2008 NATO Bucharest summit that 'Ukraine and Georgia will become NATO members," the Russian foreign ministry said.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Ahead of the G7 foreign ministers meet, UK's foreign minister Liz Truss said Russia would be committing a "strategic mistake" if it attacked Ukraine. Truss said there would be "severe consequences if anything were to happen" referring to Russia's reported plan to attack Ukraine which has been dominated the European agenda in the past month.

Ahead of the G7 foreign ministers meet, UK's foreign minister Liz Truss said Russia would be committing a "strategic mistake" if it attacked Ukraine. Truss said there would be "severe consequences if anything were to happen" referring to Russia's reported plan to attack Ukraine which has been dominated the European agenda in the past month. The UK foreign minister also expressed concern over the Nordstream 2 natural gas pipeline project. Read in Pics: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? "Nordstream 2 is very important," Truss said, adding, "moving ahead with that in the case of this aggression that we're seeing by Russia with respect to Ukraine would be a problem." Watch: President Biden reaffirms support for Ukraine in call with Zelenskyy President Biden during a virtual summit with President Putin had threatened sanctions if Russia attacked Ukraine with the UK foreign minister retreating that trade ties with London would be hit if the Ukraine situation went out of control. Also Read: NATO chief turns down Russia's demand to deny Ukraine entry President Biden had spoken to Germany's new chancellor Olaf Scholz on the tensions between Ukraine and Russia. "We need to come together strongly to stand up to aggressors who are seeking to limit the bounds of freedom and democracy," Truss said. India, South Korea, Australia and South Africa are set to participate as guests during the G7 summit. Russia had said earlier that NATO should not allow Georgia and Ukraine into its military alliance and desist from expanding near its border in the east. "In the fundamental interests of European security, it is necessary to officially disavow the decision of the 2008 NATO Bucharest summit that 'Ukraine and Georgia will become NATO members," the Russian foreign ministry said. (With inputs from Agencies)

UK warns Russia on 'strategic mistake' over military action in Ukraine

Amid tensions with Ukraine at the border, reports claim Russia has approved "urgent burial of corpses in war and peacetime".

The move comes even as the White House on Friday declared that there was "military buildup by the Russians" and "bellicose rhetoric from the leader of Russia" referring to President Putin.

The US has warned Russia of "massive consequences" if Russia attacks Ukraine as reports claimed over 100,000 troops were amassed at the border.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-conducts-military-drill-with-us-made-anti-tank-missiles-439100">Also Read:&nbsp;Ukraine conducts military drill with US-made anti-tank missiles</a>

The new Russian directive on the burial of copses was published in Russia's official portal. It said under urgent burial of corpses section: "A set of measures for the urgent burial of corpses of people and animals killed during military conflicts or as a result of these conflicts, as well as, if necessary, as a result of emergency situations of peace."

The new measures are&nbsp;expected to come into force from February 1.

Watch:&nbsp;Moscow doesn't want conflict with Ukraine, says Putin

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The order also called for the "implementation of civil defence measures". The document reportedly asked Russian authorities to organise a "mass funeral" while calling for the "identification of places of possible burials".

"The decision to create burial sites is made by the executive authority of the constituent entity of the Russian Federation," it said.

In order to deescalate tensions, the US government said it is preparing for talks with Russia after Kremlin submitted a document on security guarantees to the Biden administration and NATO.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-want-conflict-over-ukraine-but-nato-expansion-unacceptable-putin-439311">Also Read:&nbsp;Don't want conflict over Ukraine, but NATO expansion unacceptable, says&nbsp;Putin</a>

Putin has consistently demanded that NATO should not expand its border to the east overlooking Russia. During the annual press conference, the Russian leader said he is ready to discuss the proposals with President Biden.&nbsp;

The Russian president informed that Biden had proposed to assign "official representatives" to discuss the issues. Putin asserted that "real action" needed to be taken by the West while stressing on "unconditional measures to ensure Russia’s security".

"NATO’s further expansion to the East is unacceptable," Putin said at the press conference.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions with Ukraine at the border, reports claim Russia has approved "urgent burial of corpses in war and peacetime". The move comes even as the White House on Friday declared that there was "military buildup by the Russians" and "bellicose rhetoric from the leader of Russia" referring to President Putin.

Amid tensions with Ukraine at the border, reports claim Russia has approved "urgent burial of corpses in war and peacetime". The move comes even as the White House on Friday declared that there was "military buildup by the Russians" and "bellicose rhetoric from the leader of Russia" referring to President Putin. The US has warned Russia of "massive consequences" if Russia attacks Ukraine as reports claimed over 100,000 troops were amassed at the border. Also Read: Ukraine conducts military drill with US-made anti-tank missiles The new Russian directive on the burial of copses was published in Russia's official portal. It said under urgent burial of corpses section: "A set of measures for the urgent burial of corpses of people and animals killed during military conflicts or as a result of these conflicts, as well as, if necessary, as a result of emergency situations of peace." The new measures are expected to come into force from February 1. Watch: Moscow doesn't want conflict with Ukraine, says Putin The order also called for the "implementation of civil defence measures". The document reportedly asked Russian authorities to organise a "mass funeral" while calling for the "identification of places of possible burials". "The decision to create burial sites is made by the executive authority of the constituent entity of the Russian Federation," it said. In order to deescalate tensions, the US government said it is preparing for talks with Russia after Kremlin submitted a document on security guarantees to the Biden administration and NATO. Also Read: Don't want conflict over Ukraine, but NATO expansion unacceptable, says Putin Putin has consistently demanded that NATO should not expand its border to the east overlooking Russia. During the annual press conference, the Russian leader said he is ready to discuss the proposals with President Biden. The Russian president informed that Biden had proposed to assign "official representatives" to discuss the issues. Putin asserted that "real action" needed to be taken by the West while stressing on "unconditional measures to ensure Russia’s security". "NATO’s further expansion to the East is unacceptable," Putin said at the press conference. (With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions with Ukraine, Russia plans 'urgent burial of corpses': Report

Amid tensions at the border with Ukraine, Russian President Putin said that US and NATO's missile systems including the hypersonic weapons were a "serious challenge" to the country's security.

"If our Western colleagues continue their aggressive course of action, we will take adequate military and technical actions in response," Putin said adding that Russia has "every right to do so".

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Ukraine has been warning that Russia has massed thousands of troops on its border with the intention of invading the country. The EU and the US have repeatedly been warning of "massive consequences" if Russia attacked Ukraine.

"We have every right to take actions aimed to ensure the security and sovereignty of Russia," Putin asserted even as the Russian president added that he had proposed negotiations with President Joe Biden.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia warns of advanced military action

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Putin said increased tension in Europe was "their fault". The Russian president said with every step the situation has been "getting worse, worse, worse and degraded and degraded" referring to the situation at the border with Ukine.&nbsp;

"Today, we are in such a situation where we are forced to make a decision," Putin said. The Russian president said the buildup of NATO forces next to Russian borders was of "great concern" including "large-scale military drills".

"We are extremely worried about deploying the United States' global missile defence system near Russia," Putin said. In a document submitted to the US government and NATO last week, Putin's regime had asked the Biden administration not to induct former Soviet block countries into its military alliance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Also Read in Pics: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?</a>

Ukraine&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky however has expressed frustration over NATO's reluctance to speed up its membership into the alliance. Zelensky said his country wants to become a NATO member by next year.

Amid tensions, US State Department spokesman Ned Price said the Biden administration would provide &nbsp;"additional defensive material" in case Russia decides to invade Ukraine which involves&nbsp;material "above and beyond" which is already being provided.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions at the border with Ukraine, Russian President Putin said that US and NATO's missile systems including the hypersonic weapons were a "serious challenge" to the country's security.

Amid tensions at the border with Ukraine, Russian President Putin said that US and NATO's missile systems including the hypersonic weapons were a "serious challenge" to the country's security. "If our Western colleagues continue their aggressive course of action, we will take adequate military and technical actions in response," Putin said adding that Russia has "every right to do so". Also Read in Pics: Rebel-held regions of eastern Ukraine are growing closer to Russia Ukraine has been warning that Russia has massed thousands of troops on its border with the intention of invading the country. The EU and the US have repeatedly been warning of "massive consequences" if Russia attacked Ukraine. "We have every right to take actions aimed to ensure the security and sovereignty of Russia," Putin asserted even as the Russian president added that he had proposed negotiations with President Joe Biden. Watch: Russia warns of advanced military action Putin said increased tension in Europe was "their fault". The Russian president said with every step the situation has been "getting worse, worse, worse and degraded and degraded" referring to the situation at the border with Ukine. "Today, we are in such a situation where we are forced to make a decision," Putin said. The Russian president said the buildup of NATO forces next to Russian borders was of "great concern" including "large-scale military drills". "We are extremely worried about deploying the United States' global missile defence system near Russia," Putin said. In a document submitted to the US government and NATO last week, Putin's regime had asked the Biden administration not to induct former Soviet block countries into its military alliance. Also Read in Pics: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky however has expressed frustration over NATO's reluctance to speed up its membership into the alliance. Zelensky said his country wants to become a NATO member by next year. Amid tensions, US State Department spokesman Ned Price said the Biden administration would provide "additional defensive material" in case Russia decides to invade Ukraine which involves material "above and beyond" which is already being provided. (With inputs from Agencies)

We have every right to take action aimed to ensure security, says Putin on tensions with Ukraine

A US State Department official said Russia could "potentially attack Ukraine" from Belarus as it intends to station troops in the country.

"The timing is notable and raises concerns that Russia could intend to station troops in Belarus under the guise of joint military exercises in order potentially to attack Ukraine from the north," a US State Department official said.

The official said, "Belarus’ complicity in such an attack would be completely unacceptable to Belarusian."

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Amid tensions with Ukraine at the border with Russia, President Lukashenko had announced that Russian forces and the Belarus military would be conducting drills next month.

Russian news agency TASS, quoting the US State Department official said &nbsp;a "normal exercise" involves notification of 42 days and at least 9,000&nbsp;troops are&nbsp;involved, but this time there are 13,0000&nbsp;troops, adding, "that's what normal looks like, what this is is something entirely different."

Watch:&nbsp;Europe heading for war? Russia conducts military drills

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The official said there are "many troubling things happening in Belarus" referring to Lukashenko's regime which has been facing domestic trouble including sanctions from EU countries. The State Department official said Belarus had increasingly become a "destabilising actor".

The US has been warning that Russia could launch an attack on Ukraine with thousands of troops stationed at the border. The White House said recently that the attack could come in mid-January to mid-February.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Also Read:&nbsp;What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?</a>

Russia has denied it is set to invade Ukraine and has insisted it can move troops anywhere inside its region. Kremlin had earlier submitted a document to the US and NATO asserting that the European military alliance should not admit ex-Soviet countries referring to Ukraine. NATO has however rejected Russia's demand.&nbsp;

Amid hectic diplomatic efforts, the US secretary of state Antony Blinken is set to arrive in Kyiv on Wednesday as the White House said Putin's regime is set to attack at "any point".

(With inputs from Agencies)

A US State Department official said Russia could "potentially attack Ukraine" from Belarus as it intends to station troops in the country. "The timing is notable and raises concerns that Russia could intend to station troops in Belarus under the guise of joint military exercises in order potentially to attack Ukraine from the north," a US State Department official said.

A US State Department official said Russia could "potentially attack Ukraine" from Belarus as it intends to station troops in the country. "The timing is notable and raises concerns that Russia could intend to station troops in Belarus under the guise of joint military exercises in order potentially to attack Ukraine from the north," a US State Department official said. The official said, "Belarus’ complicity in such an attack would be completely unacceptable to Belarusian." Also Read in Pics: Rebel-held regions of eastern Ukraine are growing closer to Russia Amid tensions with Ukraine at the border with Russia, President Lukashenko had announced that Russian forces and the Belarus military would be conducting drills next month. Russian news agency TASS, quoting the US State Department official said a "normal exercise" involves notification of 42 days and at least 9,000 troops are involved, but this time there are 13,0000 troops, adding, "that's what normal looks like, what this is is something entirely different." Watch: Europe heading for war? Russia conducts military drills The official said there are "many troubling things happening in Belarus" referring to Lukashenko's regime which has been facing domestic trouble including sanctions from EU countries. The State Department official said Belarus had increasingly become a "destabilising actor". The US has been warning that Russia could launch an attack on Ukraine with thousands of troops stationed at the border. The White House said recently that the attack could come in mid-January to mid-February. Also Read: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? Russia has denied it is set to invade Ukraine and has insisted it can move troops anywhere inside its region. Kremlin had earlier submitted a document to the US and NATO asserting that the European military alliance should not admit ex-Soviet countries referring to Ukraine. NATO has however rejected Russia's demand. Amid hectic diplomatic efforts, the US secretary of state Antony Blinken is set to arrive in Kyiv on Wednesday as the White House said Putin's regime is set to attack at "any point". (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia could potentially attack Ukraine from Belarus: US State Department official

Amid tensions with Russia at the border, Boris Johnson's government said it has begun supplying anti-tank weapons to Ukraine amid reports of an imminent Russian invasion.

British defence secretary Ben Wallace told parliament that the government was sending "short-range" weapons which pose no threat to Russia but it is for Ukraine's "self-defence".

"If tanks were to roll into Ukraine, invade it, then they would be part of the defence mechanism," Wallace told parliamentarians.

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Meanwhile, Russian soldiers took part in a military exercise near the Ukrainian border amid tensions in the&nbsp;Kamensk-Shakhtinsky region as the soldiers reportedly carried out fortification and mining exercises.

The US and Ukraine have warned that Putin's regime is ready to launch an attack on Kyiv with over 100,000 troops amassed at the border with tanks and heavy artillery.

Watch:&nbsp;US, Russia harden stance over Ukraine crisis

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Russia has dismissed claims it is about to invade Ukraine however it has insisted that Russian troops have the right to move about freely anywhere inside the country.

Russia had recently submitted a security document to the US and NATO in which it said the European security alliance should not induct ex-Soviet countries into its fold, referring to Ukraine. NATO has however rejected Russia's demand.

European countries including Germany have demanded Russia "de-escalate the situation" at the border warning that an invasion could lead to "serious political as well as economic consequences" for Russia.

However, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said that the country's leadership "is capable of protecting its interests both in terms of security and in terms of ensuring the rights of Russian citizens".

(With inputs from Agencies)&nbsp;

Amid tensions with Russia at the border, Boris Johnson's government said it has begun supplying anti-tank weapons to Ukraine amid reports of an imminent Russian invasion.

Amid tensions with Russia at the border, Boris Johnson's government said it has begun supplying anti-tank weapons to Ukraine amid reports of an imminent Russian invasion. British defence secretary Ben Wallace told parliament that the government was sending "short-range" weapons which pose no threat to Russia but it is for Ukraine's "self-defence". "If tanks were to roll into Ukraine, invade it, then they would be part of the defence mechanism," Wallace told parliamentarians. Also Read: Canada sends special forces operators’ small contingent to Ukraine Meanwhile, Russian soldiers took part in a military exercise near the Ukrainian border amid tensions in the Kamensk-Shakhtinsky region as the soldiers reportedly carried out fortification and mining exercises. The US and Ukraine have warned that Putin's regime is ready to launch an attack on Kyiv with over 100,000 troops amassed at the border with tanks and heavy artillery. Watch: US, Russia harden stance over Ukraine crisis Russia has dismissed claims it is about to invade Ukraine however it has insisted that Russian troops have the right to move about freely anywhere inside the country. Russia had recently submitted a security document to the US and NATO in which it said the European security alliance should not induct ex-Soviet countries into its fold, referring to Ukraine. NATO has however rejected Russia's demand. European countries including Germany have demanded Russia "de-escalate the situation" at the border warning that an invasion could lead to "serious political as well as economic consequences" for Russia. However, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said that the country's leadership "is capable of protecting its interests both in terms of security and in terms of ensuring the rights of Russian citizens". (With inputs from Agencies)

UK supplies anti-tank weapons to Ukraine amid tensions with Russia

Amid tensions between Russia and Ukraine, the US accused&nbsp;Russia of creating a "false flag" scenario.

"They have pre-positioned a group of operatives to conduct what we call a 'false flag operation'," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.

What is a "False Flag"?

A "false flag" scenario occurs when a group deliberately misrepresents affiliation and hides its true identity. It is used widely during war and covert operations.

It is a deceptive move undertaken by a country or an organisation to set up an&nbsp;attack. Pirate ships often used "false flags" of nations to deceive merchant ships while undertaking an attack under a "false flag".

There are numerous examples throughout history of armymen stealing uniforms from their enemy to take part in covert operations in order to carry out a clandestine military campaign. The "false flag" tactic is also used to sometimes start a war.

In the latest "false flag" claim the US accused Russia of fabricating an attack on itself or on Russian-speaking Ukrainians by a group of operatives to make a false claim of an attack by Ukraine.&nbsp;

"False Flag" operations:

CIA had reportedly carried a false flag operation in 1953 against Iran's former PM Mohammad Mosaddeq in order to successfully launch operation TPAJAX as it conducted bombing campaigns which were blamed on communist sympathisers. A declassified report claimed Britain's MI6 and the CIA jointly undertook the operations.&nbsp;

“Operation Northwoods” is another example of a "false flag" operation proposed by US intelligence in 1962 to justify military action against Cuba.&nbsp;

The US Department of Defence planned to stage "terrorist" acts against American military and civilian installations and blame it on Fidel Castro's regime. The proposal was however rejected by former President Kennedy.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions between Russia and Ukraine, the US accused Russia of creating a "false flag" scenario. "They have pre-positioned a group of operatives to conduct what we call a 'false flag operation'," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.

Amid tensions between Russia and Ukraine, the US accused Russia of creating a "false flag" scenario. "They have pre-positioned a group of operatives to conduct what we call a 'false flag operation'," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said. What is a "False Flag"? A "false flag" scenario occurs when a group deliberately misrepresents affiliation and hides its true identity. It is used widely during war and covert operations. It is a deceptive move undertaken by a country or an organisation to set up an attack. Pirate ships often used "false flags" of nations to deceive merchant ships while undertaking an attack under a "false flag". There are numerous examples throughout history of armymen stealing uniforms from their enemy to take part in covert operations in order to carry out a clandestine military campaign. The "false flag" tactic is also used to sometimes start a war. In the latest "false flag" claim the US accused Russia of fabricating an attack on itself or on Russian-speaking Ukrainians by a group of operatives to make a false claim of an attack by Ukraine. "False Flag" operations: CIA had reportedly carried a false flag operation in 1953 against Iran's former PM Mohammad Mosaddeq in order to successfully launch operation TPAJAX as it conducted bombing campaigns which were blamed on communist sympathisers. A declassified report claimed Britain's MI6 and the CIA jointly undertook the operations. “Operation Northwoods” is another example of a "false flag" operation proposed by US intelligence in 1962 to justify military action against Cuba. The US Department of Defence planned to stage "terrorist" acts against American military and civilian installations and blame it on Fidel Castro's regime. The proposal was however rejected by former President Kennedy. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine-Russia tensions: What is 'false flag'?

Amid tensions at the border with Ukraine,&nbsp;UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Russia was planning a "lightning war that could take out Kyiv” while adding that it " would be a disastrous step”.

Western leaders said it was up to "Russia to undertake visible de-escalation initiatives" as NATO decided to send extra forces to eastern Europe.

US President Joe Biden had a video chat with European leaders to discuss the escalating tension with Russia as the allies sought to put pressure on Putin's regime.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-checkmate-why-the-orion-combat-drone-is-a-gamechanger-446455">Also Read in Pics | Russia's 'checkmate': Why the Orion combat drone is a gamechanger</a>

Biden said he was in "total unanimity with all the European leaders" as leaders discussed "joint efforts" to thwart Russia's moves against Ukraine.

The leaders agreed to impose "massive consequences and severe economic costs" as NATO said it will send ships and fighter jets to eastern Europe.

Watch:&nbsp;&nbsp;Countries move diplomats out of Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-countries-move-diplomats-out-of-ukraine-447267/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Biden administration said it has put 8,500 troops on alert to be deployed at short notice amid large scale buildup of Russian troops at&nbsp;the Ukraine border.&nbsp;

Russia had reportedly deployed over 100,000 troops on the Ukraine border even as President Putin has rejected warnings from European nations that Russia was set to invade Ukraine. The Kremlin has maintained Russian troops have the right to move anywhere within their own territory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-photos-show-russian-troops-deployed-near-ukraine-border-446072">Also Read:&nbsp;Satellite photos show Russian troops deployed near Ukraine border</a>

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby declared that, "Russians have no intention right now of de-escalating" while citing intelligence sources.

However, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called for calm while stating that there should not be "nervous breakdown" even as UK and Australia ordered their diplomats to leave Ukraine after the US asked its diplomatic staff to leave even as Russia accused NATO of "hysteria."

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions at the border with Ukraine, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Russia was planning a "lightning war that could take out Kyiv” while adding that it " would be a disastrous step”.

Amid tensions at the border with Ukraine, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Russia was planning a "lightning war that could take out Kyiv” while adding that it " would be a disastrous step”. Western leaders said it was up to "Russia to undertake visible de-escalation initiatives" as NATO decided to send extra forces to eastern Europe. US President Joe Biden had a video chat with European leaders to discuss the escalating tension with Russia as the allies sought to put pressure on Putin's regime. Also Read in Pics | Russia's 'checkmate': Why the Orion combat drone is a gamechanger Biden said he was in "total unanimity with all the European leaders" as leaders discussed "joint efforts" to thwart Russia's moves against Ukraine. The leaders agreed to impose "massive consequences and severe economic costs" as NATO said it will send ships and fighter jets to eastern Europe. Watch: Countries move diplomats out of Ukraine The Biden administration said it has put 8,500 troops on alert to be deployed at short notice amid large scale buildup of Russian troops at the Ukraine border. Russia had reportedly deployed over 100,000 troops on the Ukraine border even as President Putin has rejected warnings from European nations that Russia was set to invade Ukraine. The Kremlin has maintained Russian troops have the right to move anywhere within their own territory. Also Read: Satellite photos show Russian troops deployed near Ukraine border Pentagon spokesman John Kirby declared that, "Russians have no intention right now of de-escalating" while citing intelligence sources. However, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called for calm while stating that there should not be "nervous breakdown" even as UK and Australia ordered their diplomats to leave Ukraine after the US asked its diplomatic staff to leave even as Russia accused NATO of "hysteria." (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia  planning 'lightning war that could take out Kyiv': UK PM Boris Johnson

The Kremlin said on Friday that Russia and the United States had a tentative date and time for a video summit between Vladimir&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;and Joe Biden in the coming days, but that Moscow was waiting for Washington to finalise it.

Kremlin advisor Yuri Ushakov said&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;plans to tell Biden about a proposal for security guarantees that would halt the NATO military alliance's eastward expansion and end what Moscow describes as threatening weapons deployments to Russia's neighbours, including Ukraine.

"Given the tense situation, there is now an urgent need to provide us with appropriate guarantees. It simply cannot go on like this," Ushakov told reporters at a briefing.

The United States, its NATO allies and Ukraine accuse Moscow of massing troops near the Ukrainian border, and Kyiv says it fears Russia is planning an attack. Moscow denies plans to invade Ukraine, and accuses Kyiv of building up its own forces to attack territory held by pro-Russian separatists.

Russia has been pushing for top-level talks with the United States for weeks&nbsp;and has floated the idea of seeking legally-binding security guarantees from the West.

Ushakov repeated Russia's denials that it is being aggressive along the Ukrainian frontier.

"It's nonsense, there is no escalation," said Ushakov. "We have the right to move around troops on our own territory, there is absolutely no escalation (by us)."

Ushakov said any talks with Biden would take place after&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;travels to India next week.

"We have a concrete date and time for this video conference. I think it's better to wait for final agreement from the Americans. But this meeting in the format of a video conference is being fairly actively prepared," he said.

At the talks,&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;and Biden could also discuss agreements they reached at their first summit in Geneva in June, Ushakov said. Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Syria and strategic stability might also be raised, he said.

The Kremlin said on Friday that Russia and the United States had a tentative date and time for a video summit between Vladimir Putin and Joe Biden in the coming days, but that Moscow was waiting for Washington to finalise it.

The Kremlin said on Friday that Russia and the United States had a tentative date and time for a video summit between Vladimir Putin and Joe Biden in the coming days, but that Moscow was waiting for Washington to finalise it. Kremlin advisor Yuri Ushakov said Putin plans to tell Biden about a proposal for security guarantees that would halt the NATO military alliance's eastward expansion and end what Moscow describes as threatening weapons deployments to Russia's neighbours, including Ukraine. "Given the tense situation, there is now an urgent need to provide us with appropriate guarantees. It simply cannot go on like this," Ushakov told reporters at a briefing. The United States, its NATO allies and Ukraine accuse Moscow of massing troops near the Ukrainian border, and Kyiv says it fears Russia is planning an attack. Moscow denies plans to invade Ukraine, and accuses Kyiv of building up its own forces to attack territory held by pro-Russian separatists. Russia has been pushing for top-level talks with the United States for weeks and has floated the idea of seeking legally-binding security guarantees from the West. Ushakov repeated Russia's denials that it is being aggressive along the Ukrainian frontier. "It's nonsense, there is no escalation," said Ushakov. "We have the right to move around troops on our own territory, there is absolutely no escalation (by us)." Ushakov said any talks with Biden would take place after Putin travels to India next week. "We have a concrete date and time for this video conference. I think it's better to wait for final agreement from the Americans. But this meeting in the format of a video conference is being fairly actively prepared," he said. At the talks, Putin and Biden could also discuss agreements they reached at their first summit in Geneva in June, Ushakov said. Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Syria and strategic stability might also be raised, he said.

Putin, Joe Biden set to conduct video summit: Kremlin

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