Taking the west diplomacy forward to ease the Ukraine conflict and fears of a Russian invasion, French president Emmanuel Macron held talks with Russian president Vladimir Putin in Moscow that lasted for over five hours. Sitting across a long table from Putin at the kremlin macron said that the discussion was a start towards de-escalation.

Putin says 'ready for compromises, will consider proposals by Macron'

French President Emmanuel Macron leads talks to dissuade Russia from invading Ukraine. Macron offers concrete ‘security guarantees’ to Moscow, details of which not yet known.

French President Emmanuel Macron offers concrete ‘security guarantees’ to Moscow

The Kremlin said on Monday (February 7) that it did not expect any major breakthrough from talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron. But the Kremlin expected that Macron would propose ways to ease tensions in Europe.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Pescov said in a briefing that the Ukraine Crisis was expected to dominate the talks between two leaders.

Moscow denies planning an invasion of Ukraine but is seeking security guarantees including a pledge that Ukraine must never allowed to join NATO.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/before-crucial-trip-to-russia-french-president-emmanuel-macron-talks-to-us-president-joe-biden-451105">Before crucial trip to Russia, French President Emmanuel Macron talks to US President Joe Biden</a>

The West has rejected that, but said it is willing to discuss other issues such as arms control.

Macron is expected to seek commitments from Putin to dial down the tensions.

"The situation is too complex to expect decisive breakthroughs in the course of one meeting," Peskov said.

But he said Russia was aware of certain ideas for lowering tensions that Macron had spoken about before and planned to share with Putin.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-ukraine-defence-chief-says-russia-could-seize-any-city-in-ukraine-but-will-it-plan-full-scale-invasion-451199">Ex-Ukraine defence chief says Russia could seize any city in Ukraine. But will it plan full-scale invasion?</a>

Peskov said it was not possible to speak of a lull in tensions while Western governments continued to talk about a looming Russian attack on Ukraine.

He said Moscow had heard nothing new in recent days on the security guarantees it is requesting, and "our Western interlocutors prefer not to mention this topic."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Kremlin said on Monday (February 7) that it did not expect any major breakthrough from talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron.

The Kremlin said on Monday (February 7) that it did not expect any major breakthrough from talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron. But the Kremlin expected that Macron would propose ways to ease tensions in Europe. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Pescov said in a briefing that the Ukraine Crisis was expected to dominate the talks between two leaders. Moscow denies planning an invasion of Ukraine but is seeking security guarantees including a pledge that Ukraine must never allowed to join NATO. Also Read | Before crucial trip to Russia, French President Emmanuel Macron talks to US President Joe Biden The West has rejected that, but said it is willing to discuss other issues such as arms control. Macron is expected to seek commitments from Putin to dial down the tensions. "The situation is too complex to expect decisive breakthroughs in the course of one meeting," Peskov said. But he said Russia was aware of certain ideas for lowering tensions that Macron had spoken about before and planned to share with Putin. Also Read | Ex-Ukraine defence chief says Russia could seize any city in Ukraine. But will it plan full-scale invasion? Peskov said it was not possible to speak of a lull in tensions while Western governments continued to talk about a looming Russian attack on Ukraine. He said Moscow had heard nothing new in recent days on the security guarantees it is requesting, and "our Western interlocutors prefer not to mention this topic." (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine Crisis: Expecting no decisive breakthrough from Putin-Macron talks, says Kremlin

Ukrainians prep to defend themselves as people prepare for a possible invasion by Ukraine amid Beijing Winter Olympics.

Ukrainians prep to defend themselves as people prepare for a possible invasion by Russia

US troops arrive in Poland, Germany while Russian bombers fly over Belarus. War fear mounts with possible invasion by Russia.

US troops arrive in Poland, Germany while Russian bombers fly over Belarus

How do Russia & Ukraine compare militarily? Which side are the odds stacked against? Who will have the edge in case of a war? Palki Sharma gets you a head-to-head military comparison.

Ukraine Vs Russia: Comparing the Military capabilities

Ukrainians prep to defend themselves as people prepare for a possible invasion by Ukraine while the world witnesses Beijing Winter Olympics.

Ukrainian ground troops need more ammunition amid a possible invasion by Russia

Ukrainians train for a possible invasion by Russia amid conflict

US troops arrive in Poland & Germany while Russian bombers fly over Belarus. War fear mounts with possible invasion by Russia. The US military aid also arrives in Ukraine.

Russian bombers fly over Belarus

WION on ground zero: The US military aid arrives in Ukraine amid conflict with Russia

For several months now since November, the leaders of the west, Russia, and indeed the United States have been engaged in an escalating war of words. The political shadow boxing has been over a possible Russian incursion into Ukraine, in the aftermath of Russia having amassed almost over a hundred thousand troops along the borders with eastern Ukraine.

Tensions escalate over Ukraine: Europe's big two are set to mediate crisis

Ukrainians prep to defend themselves as people prepare for possible invasion by Russia

In a bid to defuse tensions over the Ukraine crisis, French President Emmanuel Macron will embark to Moscow & Kyiv.

As tensions escalate over Ukraine, Europe's big two try to mediate crisis

French President Emmanuel Macron will visit Russia & Ukraine as tensions escalate

West sends weapons to Ukraine as tensions escalate with Russia

President Vladimir Putin hailed the relationship between China and Russia as he met with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping ahead of the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics 2022.

Russian President Vladimir Putin meets Chinese President Xi Jinping amid Ukraine crisis

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis, Russian President Vladimir Putin is in China attending the Beijing Winter Olympics. Will the crisis and war tensions overshadow the games completely? Watch the report.

Ukraine crisis overshadows the Beijing Winter Olympics

Russian President Putin & Chinese President Xi Jinping project united front against the West

Russia recognises Taiwan as an inalienable part of China and rejects the island's independence in any form, according to a joint Russian-Chinese declaration released on Friday.&nbsp;

"The Russian side reaffirms its support for the One-China principle, confirms that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, and opposes any forms of independence of Taiwan," the statement read.

The parties also reiterate their strong mutual support for the safeguarding of their key interests, including state sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as their opposition to foreign involvement in their domestic affairs.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/example-of-dignified-relationship-ahead-of-winter-olympic-ceremony-putin-meets-xi-in-beijing-450383">Also read | 'Example of dignified relationship': Ahead of Winter Olympic ceremony, Putin meets Xi in Beijing</a>

In a lengthy joint statement, China blamed the US of inciting riots in Hong Kong and pushing Taiwanese independence, while Russia accused the US of destabilising Ukraine in the same way.

“Russia and China stand against attempts by external forces to undermine security and stability in their common adjacent regions,” according to the 5,300-word joint statement released by the Kremlin.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Kamalturk Yalqun-Once a torchbearer now calls for boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics 2022

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kamalturk-yalqun-once-a-torchbearer-now-calls-for-boycott-of-beijing-winter-olympics-2022-450325/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It said both nations “intend to counter interference by outside forces in the internal affairs of sovereign countries under any pretext, oppose color revolutions and will increase cooperation in the aforementioned areas.”

China has said that the world should not be divided into the kind of power blocs that defined the era when the Soviet Union and United States were the two dominant superpowers.

Earlier in the day, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing ahead of the Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

The Russian president praised the two countries' ties, calling them "unprecedented in nature and an example of respectful cooperation."

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/eye-on-pacific-why-china-is-testing-anti-ship-ballistic-missiles-in-xinjiang-desert-443100">Eye on Pacific: Why China is testing anti-ship ballistic missiles in Xinjiang desert</a>

Putin is on his first overseas trip of the year, despite rising tensions with the West over Ukraine.

In their first face-to-face meeting in nearly two years, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with his Chinese counterpart. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-accuses-china-of-economically-punishing-lithuania-over-its-stance-on-taiwan-448153" hreflang="en">European Union accuses China of economically punishing Lithuania over its stance on Taiwan</a>

President Xi, on the other hand, hasn't left China since the coronavirus spread over the country in January 2020.

Later today, both leaders will attend the Olympic opening ceremony.&nbsp;

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/war-scenario-taiwan-conducts-air-drills-urban-warfare-simulation-amid-china-tensions-442589">War scenario: Taiwan conducts air drills, urban warfare simulation amid China tensions</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia recognises Taiwan as an inalienable part of China and rejects the island's independence in any form, according to a joint Russian-Chinese declaration released on Friday.

Russia recognises Taiwan as an inalienable part of China and rejects the island's independence in any form, according to a joint Russian-Chinese declaration released on Friday. "The Russian side reaffirms its support for the One-China principle, confirms that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, and opposes any forms of independence of Taiwan," the statement read. The parties also reiterate their strong mutual support for the safeguarding of their key interests, including state sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as their opposition to foreign involvement in their domestic affairs. Also read | 'Example of dignified relationship': Ahead of Winter Olympic ceremony, Putin meets Xi in Beijing In a lengthy joint statement, China blamed the US of inciting riots in Hong Kong and pushing Taiwanese independence, while Russia accused the US of destabilising Ukraine in the same way. “Russia and China stand against attempts by external forces to undermine security and stability in their common adjacent regions,” according to the 5,300-word joint statement released by the Kremlin. Watch: Kamalturk Yalqun-Once a torchbearer now calls for boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 It said both nations “intend to counter interference by outside forces in the internal affairs of sovereign countries under any pretext, oppose color revolutions and will increase cooperation in the aforementioned areas.” China has said that the world should not be divided into the kind of power blocs that defined the era when the Soviet Union and United States were the two dominant superpowers. Earlier in the day, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing ahead of the Winter Olympics opening ceremony. The Russian president praised the two countries' ties, calling them "unprecedented in nature and an example of respectful cooperation." Also see | Eye on Pacific: Why China is testing anti-ship ballistic missiles in Xinjiang desert Putin is on his first overseas trip of the year, despite rising tensions with the West over Ukraine. In their first face-to-face meeting in nearly two years, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with his Chinese counterpart. Also read | European Union accuses China of economically punishing Lithuania over its stance on Taiwan President Xi, on the other hand, hasn't left China since the coronavirus spread over the country in January 2020. Later today, both leaders will attend the Olympic opening ceremony. Also see | War scenario: Taiwan conducts air drills, urban warfare simulation amid China tensions (With inputs from agencies)

Russia recognises Taiwan as part of China, opposes island's independence

Russian President Putin is currently meeting his Chinese counterpart president Xi Jinping. President Putin has arrived in Beijing as he will attend winter Olympics opening ceremony apart from this Russia and China will also discuss greater gas and financial cooperation.

Russian President Putin meets his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping ahead of Beijing winter Olympics

Russian President Vladimir Putin is all set to visit China for the upcoming winter Olympics. Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping will have lunch on Friday and Putin will also attend the winter Olympics opening ceremony. Russia and China are all set to discuss greater gas and also financial cooperation.

Putin and Xi Jinping to meet ahead Beijing Winter Olympics

Russian President Vladimir Putin is going to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics. He is also going to meet with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.

Beijing Winter Olympics: Russian President Putin to meet with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping

Russian President Vladimir Putin is accusing the West of ignoring Moscow's security concerns. The Russian President says the West's response to Moscow's demands is far from adequate.

Russia: President Putin accuses West of ignoring Moscow's security concerns

The United States, United Kingdom, Russia and Ukraine have all stepped up their diplomatic engagements in the past week in a bit to try and de-escalate the tensions surrounding the troop build up along the border with Ukraine but the renewed dialogue has not produced any tangible results. In the latest, Russian President Vladimir Putin has made his very first public statements about the ongoing crisis saying that the West is actually deliberately creating a scenario of war.

Putin: West deliberately creating scenario of war

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday expressed hopes that dialogue on Ukraine crisis would continue. He said he hoped that dialogue went on in order to avoid "negative scenarios" including war. he was speaking at a news conference.

During the news conference, Vladimir Putin raised the possibility of war between Russia and NATO if Ukraine joined the alliance and then attempted to take back Crimea from Russia by force.

"Let's imagine Ukraine is a NATO member and starts these military operations. Are we supposed to go to war with the NATO bloc? Has anyone given that any thought? Apparently not," he said.

Putin said ways were needed to be found to protect everyone's security.

Russia has more than 100,000 troops and military equipments stationed along its border with Ukraine. Although Russia claims that it did not intend to invade Ukraine, various statements from the Russian camp have been perceived to be an attempt to create a pretext.

Russia has made it clear that it was completely against Ukraine joining the NATO. Ukraine is an ex-Soviet state. In 2014, Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula by force.

United Nations Security Council (UNSC) held a session to discuss Ukraine crisis on Monday. The session was held at the request of the US while Russia opposed it.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday expressed hopes that dialogue on Ukraine crisis would continue. He said he hoped that dialogue went on in order to avoid "negative scenarios" including war.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday expressed hopes that dialogue on Ukraine crisis would continue. He said he hoped that dialogue went on in order to avoid "negative scenarios" including war. he was speaking at a news conference. During the news conference, Vladimir Putin raised the possibility of war between Russia and NATO if Ukraine joined the alliance and then attempted to take back Crimea from Russia by force. "Let's imagine Ukraine is a NATO member and starts these military operations. Are we supposed to go to war with the NATO bloc? Has anyone given that any thought? Apparently not," he said. Putin said ways were needed to be found to protect everyone's security. Russia has more than 100,000 troops and military equipments stationed along its border with Ukraine. Although Russia claims that it did not intend to invade Ukraine, various statements from the Russian camp have been perceived to be an attempt to create a pretext. Russia has made it clear that it was completely against Ukraine joining the NATO. Ukraine is an ex-Soviet state. In 2014, Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula by force. United Nations Security Council (UNSC) held a session to discuss Ukraine crisis on Monday. The session was held at the request of the US while Russia opposed it. (With inputs from agencies)

Hope dialogue on Ukraine continues, says Putin

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called President Vladimir Putin and demanded that Russia unwind its recent military build-up in the area around eastern Ukraine, the German government said in a statement on Thursday.

"One subject of their conversation was, among others, the increased Russian military presence near eastern Ukraine," the statement said. "The chancellor called for a reduction of these troop reinforcements to de-escalate tensions." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-border-crisis-world-war-will-begin-in-a-month-warns-military-analyst-375591">Russia-Ukraine border crisis: World War will begin in a month, warns military analyst</a>

Both Putin and Merkel voiced concern over the rising tensions in the southeast of Ukraine, the Kremlin said in a statement.

"Vladimir Putin drew attention to the provocative actions of Kiev, which has recently purposefully escalated the situation on the line of contact. The need for the Kiev authorities to strictly implement the previously reached agreements was stressed, first of all, to establish a direct dialogue with Donetsk and Luhansk and to legally formalize the special status of Donbass," it said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-expresses-concern-over-russian-activity-near-ukraine-375377">Also read: EU expresses concern over Russian activity near Ukraine</a>

Merkel also raised the case of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, who is currently ill in a Russian penal colony and who is demanding access to independent medical advice.

The call came as clashes between pro-Russia separatists and Ukrainian forces have increased in recent weeks and a Russian military buildup on the border heightened fears of an escalation in the conflict.&nbsp;

Earlier Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy travelled to the eastern frontline. He has in recent days appealed to his country's Western allies for support.

The conflict broke out in 2014 after Moscow annexed the Crimean peninsula and has claimed more than 13,000 lives.

Kiev and the West have accused Russia of supporting the separatists with weapons and troops. Moscow has repeatedly denied those claims.

Peace talks mediated by France and Germany since 2015 have failed to end the fighting.&nbsp;

While the Kremlin has not denied its recent troop movements on Ukraine's border, it has insisted that Moscow is posing no threat.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called President Vladimir Putin and demanded that Russia unwind its recent military build-up in the area around eastern Ukraine, the German government said in a statement on Thursday.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called President Vladimir Putin and demanded that Russia unwind its recent military build-up in the area around eastern Ukraine, the German government said in a statement on Thursday. "One subject of their conversation was, among others, the increased Russian military presence near eastern Ukraine," the statement said. "The chancellor called for a reduction of these troop reinforcements to de-escalate tensions." Russia-Ukraine border crisis: World War will begin in a month, warns military analyst Both Putin and Merkel voiced concern over the rising tensions in the southeast of Ukraine, the Kremlin said in a statement. "Vladimir Putin drew attention to the provocative actions of Kiev, which has recently purposefully escalated the situation on the line of contact. The need for the Kiev authorities to strictly implement the previously reached agreements was stressed, first of all, to establish a direct dialogue with Donetsk and Luhansk and to legally formalize the special status of Donbass," it said. Also read: EU expresses concern over Russian activity near Ukraine Merkel also raised the case of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, who is currently ill in a Russian penal colony and who is demanding access to independent medical advice. The call came as clashes between pro-Russia separatists and Ukrainian forces have increased in recent weeks and a Russian military buildup on the border heightened fears of an escalation in the conflict. Earlier Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy travelled to the eastern frontline. He has in recent days appealed to his country's Western allies for support. The conflict broke out in 2014 after Moscow annexed the Crimean peninsula and has claimed more than 13,000 lives. Kiev and the West have accused Russia of supporting the separatists with weapons and troops. Moscow has repeatedly denied those claims. Peace talks mediated by France and Germany since 2015 have failed to end the fighting. While the Kremlin has not denied its recent troop movements on Ukraine's border, it has insisted that Moscow is posing no threat. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine border crisis: Merkel demands Putin reduce Russian troops around Ukraine

The crisis on the Russia-Ukraine border has Europe on high alert, with a defence analyst&nbsp;warning the situation could descend into a “world war” within weeks if tensions aren’t stemmed. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-expresses-concern-over-russian-activity-near-ukraine-375377">Also read: EU expresses concern over Russian activity near Ukraine</a> 
 
Pavel Felgenhauer, an independent Russian military analyst, has said that a European or even World War could be triggered in four weeks in Ukraine after Russia dispatched 4,000 soldiers to the disputed border with its neighbour.

"The threats are growing, and rapidly. Much is not discussed in the media, but we are seeing very bad signs. The crisis has the potential to escalate into a pan-European war, if not even a world one." he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-approves-legislation-allowing-him-to-serve-two-more-terms-375544">Also read: Russian President Putin approves legislation allowing him to serve two more terms</a>

The analysis comes after President Vladimir Putin deployed up to 4,000 Russian soldiers along with tanks and other armoured vehicles to the disputed border with its neighbour.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Day 3: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> Military build up continues near Ukraine border. 
 
Video of military vehicles, tanks today reportedly from city of Karsnodar: <a href="https://t.co/ItgkKyI1jo">pic.twitter.com/ItgkKyI1jo</a>
— Joyce Karam (@Joyce_Karam) <a href="https://twitter.com/Joyce_Karam/status/1377997465673203713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Last week, Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Ruslan Khomchak had said that Russia is building up armed forces near Ukraine’s borders in a threat to the country’s security, accusing Moscow of pursuing an “aggressive policy” towards Kyiv.

In remarks to parliament, Khomchak also accused pro-Moscow separatists of systematically violating a ceasefire in the conflict in eastern Ukraine agreed in July 2020.

Ukraine and Russia have traded blame for a spike in violence in the conflict, which Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people since 2014. 
 
However, The Kremlin said that Russian military movements near its shared border with Ukraine posed no threat to Ukraine or anyone else and that Moscow moved troops around its country as it saw fit.

(With inputs from agencies)

The crisis on the Russia-Ukraine border has Europe on high alert, with a defence analyst warning the situation could descend into a “world war” within weeks if tensions aren’t stemmed.

The crisis on the Russia-Ukraine border has Europe on high alert, with a defence analyst warning the situation could descend into a “world war” within weeks if tensions aren’t stemmed. Also read: EU expresses concern over Russian activity near Ukraine Pavel Felgenhauer, an independent Russian military analyst, has said that a European or even World War could be triggered in four weeks in Ukraine after Russia dispatched 4,000 soldiers to the disputed border with its neighbour. "The threats are growing, and rapidly. Much is not discussed in the media, but we are seeing very bad signs. The crisis has the potential to escalate into a pan-European war, if not even a world one." he said. Also read: Russian President Putin approves legislation allowing him to serve two more terms The analysis comes after President Vladimir Putin deployed up to 4,000 Russian soldiers along with tanks and other armoured vehicles to the disputed border with its neighbour. Day 3: #Russia Military build up continues near Ukraine border. Video of military vehicles, tanks today reportedly from city of Karsnodar: pic.twitter.com/ItgkKyI1jo — Joyce Karam (@Joyce_Karam) April 2, 2021 × Last week, Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Ruslan Khomchak had said that Russia is building up armed forces near Ukraine’s borders in a threat to the country’s security, accusing Moscow of pursuing an “aggressive policy” towards Kyiv. In remarks to parliament, Khomchak also accused pro-Moscow separatists of systematically violating a ceasefire in the conflict in eastern Ukraine agreed in July 2020. Ukraine and Russia have traded blame for a spike in violence in the conflict, which Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people since 2014. However, The Kremlin said that Russian military movements near its shared border with Ukraine posed no threat to Ukraine or anyone else and that Moscow moved troops around its country as it saw fit. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine border crisis: World War will begin in a month, warns military analyst

The US&nbsp;administration on Monday declined to rule out sending American troops to Ukraine as new satellite images revealed Russian forces assembling at numerous critical strategic areas along the Ukrainian border in preparation for an invasion.

In a warning to Moscow on the eve of talks between presidents Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin, the US indicated it would impose tough new economic sanctions in reaction to a Russian invasion of Ukraine.

According to a senior US official, Biden will also make it clear to Putin that the US would not rule out eventual Ukrainian membership in Nato, as the Russian leader has asked. 
 
<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 images show ground military equipment being deployed as well as personnel buildup in western Russia and Crimea.

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Maxar Tech satellite images show Russian troops massed near Ukraine border<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/russiaukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#russiaukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/a8nxqSSt4y">pic.twitter.com/a8nxqSSt4y</a>
— ChicagoMike (@ChicagoMyk) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChicagoMyk/status/1468033483293577218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Just hours after the photos were posted, White House press secretary Jen Psaki was asked if Americans should be prepared for US military on the ground if Russia decided to invade.

"I’m not going to get ahead of the President’s conversations with our transatlantic partners, which is going to happen later this afternoon," Psaki responded, "and we’ll provide you a list of who will be participating in that call as soon as the scheduling details are finalized.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-planning-to-invade-ukraine-with-175000-troops-report-434188">Also read | Russia planning to invade Ukraine with 175,000 troops: Report</a>

But I would say that our objective here is to convey diplomatically that this is the moment for Russia to pull back its military buildup at the border, "Psaki added.

The United States and European allies are prepared to take "substantial economic countermeasures ... that would impose significant and severe economic harm on the Russian economy" if Russia attacks, the official said.

In addition, Biden will make clear that if Putin "moved in, there would be an increasing request from eastern flank allies and a positive response from the United States for additional forces and capabilities and exercises," they said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US administration on Monday declined to rule out sending American troops to Ukraine as new satellite images revealed Russian forces assembling at numerous critical strategic areas along the Ukrainian border in preparation for an invasion.

The US administration on Monday declined to rule out sending American troops to Ukraine as new satellite images revealed Russian forces assembling at numerous critical strategic areas along the Ukrainian border in preparation for an invasion. In a warning to Moscow on the eve of talks between presidents Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin, the US indicated it would impose tough new economic sanctions in reaction to a Russian invasion of Ukraine. According to a senior US official, Biden will also make it clear to Putin that the US would not rule out eventual Ukrainian membership in Nato, as the Russian leader has asked. Also Read: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? The images show ground military equipment being deployed as well as personnel buildup in western Russia and Crimea. Maxar Tech satellite images show Russian troops massed near Ukraine border#russiaukraine pic.twitter.com/a8nxqSSt4y — ChicagoMike (@ChicagoMyk) December 7, 2021 × Just hours after the photos were posted, White House press secretary Jen Psaki was asked if Americans should be prepared for US military on the ground if Russia decided to invade. "I’m not going to get ahead of the President’s conversations with our transatlantic partners, which is going to happen later this afternoon," Psaki responded, "and we’ll provide you a list of who will be participating in that call as soon as the scheduling details are finalized. Also read | Russia planning to invade Ukraine with 175,000 troops: Report But I would say that our objective here is to convey diplomatically that this is the moment for Russia to pull back its military buildup at the border, "Psaki added. The United States and European allies are prepared to take "substantial economic countermeasures ... that would impose significant and severe economic harm on the Russian economy" if Russia attacks, the official said. In addition, Biden will make clear that if Putin "moved in, there would be an increasing request from eastern flank allies and a positive response from the United States for additional forces and capabilities and exercises," they said. (With inputs from agencies)

If Russia invades Ukraine, US to send more troops to Eastern Europe

Russian President Vladimir Putin and the head of the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) met in Moscow last week to discuss “regional conflicts”, the Kremlin said on Monday.

The Kremlin’s spokesman said that Putin and CIA chief William Burns discussed bilateral ties, “regional conflicts” and a crisis in diplomatic relations. He did not provide further details.&nbsp;

The meet comes amid reports of Russian troops build-up in the annexed part of Ukraine.

Burns was in Russia for two days of meetings with top officials at the request of President Joe Biden, the US embassy has said.

Last week, CNN reported that Burns had been sent to Moscow to warn the Kremlin about the alleged build-up of troops near Ukraine’s border. It said that after his meetings in Russia, Burns spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky by phone.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whats-happening-between-russia-and-ukraine-heres-a-cheat-sheet-377164">What's happening between Russia and Ukraine? Here's a cheat-sheet</a>

Biden has increased pressure on Putin since becoming US president in January. In May, Russia formally designated the United States an “unfriendly state”.

The Pentagon said last week it was monitoring the situation in Ukraine closely amid reports of a new build-up of Russian troops on the country's border.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-military-spotted-near-ukraine-border-after-us-warning-376922">Russian military spotted near Ukraine border after US warning</a>

Ukraine’s Defence Ministry said earlier this week that an estimated 90,000 Russian troops were positioned along the border and in rebel-controlled parts of eastern Ukraine.

However, Russia denied the troop build-up claim.

“Russia maintains troops presence on its territory wherever it deems necessary,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters last week.

Russia earlier this week complained about US and NATO activity in the Black Sea as its naval forces practised destroying enemy targets there.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin and the head of the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) met in Moscow last week to discuss “regional conflicts”, the Kremlin said on Monday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and the head of the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) met in Moscow last week to discuss “regional conflicts”, the Kremlin said on Monday. The Kremlin’s spokesman said that Putin and CIA chief William Burns discussed bilateral ties, “regional conflicts” and a crisis in diplomatic relations. He did not provide further details. The meet comes amid reports of Russian troops build-up in the annexed part of Ukraine. Burns was in Russia for two days of meetings with top officials at the request of President Joe Biden, the US embassy has said. Last week, CNN reported that Burns had been sent to Moscow to warn the Kremlin about the alleged build-up of troops near Ukraine’s border. It said that after his meetings in Russia, Burns spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky by phone. Also read | What's happening between Russia and Ukraine? Here's a cheat-sheet Biden has increased pressure on Putin since becoming US president in January. In May, Russia formally designated the United States an “unfriendly state”. The Pentagon said last week it was monitoring the situation in Ukraine closely amid reports of a new build-up of Russian troops on the country's border. Also read | Russian military spotted near Ukraine border after US warning Ukraine’s Defence Ministry said earlier this week that an estimated 90,000 Russian troops were positioned along the border and in rebel-controlled parts of eastern Ukraine. However, Russia denied the troop build-up claim. “Russia maintains troops presence on its territory wherever it deems necessary,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters last week. Russia earlier this week complained about US and NATO activity in the Black Sea as its naval forces practised destroying enemy targets there. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid reports of Russian troop build-up in Ukraine, CIA chief met Putin in Moscow

President Vladimir Putin of Russia is playing a game of suspense.

When he kicked over the global chessboard late last year, amassing thousands of troops at the Ukrainian border, he sent the world into panic. An invasion seemed imminent — and beyond it loomed the threat of a new global confrontation, contested by nuclear-armed powers. Things haven’t calmed down since: A call between Mr. Putin and President Biden on Dec. 30, where the leaders traded threats, did little to take the sting out of the situation. Any incident along the Russian-Ukrainian border could bring inferno.

The Kremlin’s reasoning for the escalation is curious. It is acting in response, it maintains, to the West’s “drawing Ukraine into NATO” and NATO’s encroachment on what the Kremlin views as Russia’s area of influence. But that looks like a bluff, or even trolling. The truth is that NATO, for all its welcoming gestures, is not ready to offer Ukraine membership.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-concession-over-ukraine-in-talks-with-us-says-russia-443349">No concession over Ukraine in talks with US, says Russia</a>

So what is Mr. Putin’s endgame? The immediate aim, to be sure, is to return Ukraine to Russia’s orbit. But that’s only a brush stroke on a much bigger canvas. Mr. Putin’s design is grand: to refashion the post-Cold War settlement, in the process guaranteeing the survival of Russia’s personalized power system. And judging from the West’s awkward, anguished response so far, he might be close to getting what he wants.

In recent years, Mr. Putin has successfully revived Russia’s tradition of one-man rule by amending the Constitution, rewriting history and clamping down on the opposition. Now he seeks to provide the system with a sturdy Great Power spine, returning to Russia its global glamour. In the past decade, Mr. Putin’s Russia not only demonstrated its readiness to resume control over the former Soviet space, testing its ambitions in Georgia and Ukraine, but also left its footprints all over the world, including through meddling in Western democracies. Yet today’s standoff over Ukraine takes things to a new level.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ready-to-talk-missiles-and-military-exercises-in-ukraine-with-russia-official-443265">US ready to talk missiles and military exercises in Ukraine with Russia: Official</a>

No longer content with upsetting the West, Mr. Putin is now trying to force it to agree to a new global dispensation, with Russia restored to eminence. It doesn’t stop there, though. Crucially, the geopolitical advance would serve to safeguard Mr. Putin’s rule. So the West, by accepting Russia’s geopolitical position, would effectively underwrite its domestic agenda, too. The United States would become, at home and abroad, Russia’s security provider. It’s quite the gambit.

The timing is crucial. With the European Union consumed by its own challenges and the United States’ rivalry with China yet to reach top gear, the Kremlin is seizing the moment to pursue its grand design. To do so, it could put on the war helmet at any moment. But confrontation is not the Kremlin’s goal. The escalation is about peace on Russia’s terms.

Right now, it’s hard to know what comes next. Mr. Putin can’t force his Western opponents to surrender; neither is he ready to retreat. But he could use both concessions and refusals to pursue his agenda. Concessions, such as NATO explicitly pledging not to expand any further east, would be presented as victories, and refusals as the pretext for further escalation. One success is already clear: The West has been forced to reward Russia — through outreach, diplomacy and, above all, attention — for the charitable act of not invading Ukraine.

Russia’s rebellion threatens to turn geopolitics into a battle of threats — force on one side, sanctions on the other. Mr. Putin’s method is tried and tested: He ratchets up the tensions and then demands “binding agreements,” which he does not take seriously. The aim, really, is a Hobbesian world order, built on disruption and readiness for surprise breakthroughs.

This order has nothing in common with those fashioned at the Yalta Conference in 1945, say, or the Congress of Vienna in 1815. Their architects followed the rules. The Kremlin is suggesting something very different: the irrelevance of rules. The norms by which the world has been governed for the past three decades would be thrown out, in favor of creative interpretation of the possible. In this free-for-all, Mr. Putin — mercurial master of suspense and the sudden move — can pursue his fusion of geopolitical power and personal rule.

Today, Ukraine is the jewel to fight for. But it won’t end there: Belarus, whose embattled leader relies on Russia’s support, could be the next prize in the geopolitical rivalry — or perhaps it will be Kazakhstan, where popular anger at the corrupt, Russian-backed regime has erupted. The drama is just beginning. Other neighboring countries could become hostages of Russia’s system of survival, which requires external domination for the sake of internal security.

So far, the Kremlin has been extremely lucky, or extraordinarily skilled, in playing a weak hand without aces up its sleeve. It deals with a Western establishment determined to maintain the status quo, even if that means accommodation. After all, the nature of globalization precludes serious containment policy: How can the West deter Russia when it is enmeshed in a web of economic and security ties with the Russian state?

Mr. Putin no doubt senses the advantage. Having dealt with the Western leaders for decades, he seems to have concluded that he can play bully. That the United States quickly agreed to start talks suggests Mr. Putin’s strategy is working: It could take months before Western partners discover that they have been engaged in an exchange of hot air.

They are clearly yet to work out how to respond to the Kremlin’s policy of suspense. By forcing the world to guess what Russia is up to and pursuing mutually contradictory policy lines simultaneously, the Kremlin keeps the West disoriented. Accustomed to functioning in rational, risk-averse ways, the West doesn’t know how to react to such “organized chaos.”

There are several traps into which Russia and the West could fall. The kind of sanctions the Biden administration is reportedly considering could be devastating for the Russian state and its elites, which are integrated into the West. And ordinary Russians are not going to sacrifice their living standards indefinitely for wars and antagonism. According to the independent Levada Center, in 2021 only 32 percent of Russians wanted to see Russia as “a great power respected and feared by other countries,” and just 16 percent thought the war could raise Mr. Putin’s authority. The patriotic drug of militarism has started to wear off.

There is a Catch-22 for the West, too: Any bargain that would allow the Kremlin to interpret the global rules of the game would undermine Western principles. Yet rejecting the bargain could incite the Kremlin to wreck the whole shop. The world’s liberal democracies are hardly ready for a clash with a nuclear opponent.

This is a deadlock, and there appears to be no way out. Both sides continue to play “who blinks first”: America and its allies have set out to reassure Ukraine of their support, while Russia has kept the hammer of military deployment ready. A meeting in Moscow on Thursday between representatives of Russia, France and Germany made little headway. Negotiations begin in earnest next week, as Russia and America — later joined by NATO members — aim to find the areas where agreement is possible and where it isn’t.

It’s a tall order. And even if such efforts manage to temporarily tamp down the situation, mutual suspicion will linger. The reason is simple: For as long as Mr. Putin holds sway, his grand design will never be far away.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia is playing a game of suspense. When he kicked over the global chessboard late last year, amassing thousands of troops at the Ukrainian border, he sent the world into panic.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia is playing a game of suspense. When he kicked over the global chessboard late last year, amassing thousands of troops at the Ukrainian border, he sent the world into panic. An invasion seemed imminent — and beyond it loomed the threat of a new global confrontation, contested by nuclear-armed powers. Things haven’t calmed down since: A call between Mr. Putin and President Biden on Dec. 30, where the leaders traded threats, did little to take the sting out of the situation. Any incident along the Russian-Ukrainian border could bring inferno. The Kremlin’s reasoning for the escalation is curious. It is acting in response, it maintains, to the West’s “drawing Ukraine into NATO” and NATO’s encroachment on what the Kremlin views as Russia’s area of influence. But that looks like a bluff, or even trolling. The truth is that NATO, for all its welcoming gestures, is not ready to offer Ukraine membership. Also Read | No concession over Ukraine in talks with US, says Russia So what is Mr. Putin’s endgame? The immediate aim, to be sure, is to return Ukraine to Russia’s orbit. But that’s only a brush stroke on a much bigger canvas. Mr. Putin’s design is grand: to refashion the post-Cold War settlement, in the process guaranteeing the survival of Russia’s personalized power system. And judging from the West’s awkward, anguished response so far, he might be close to getting what he wants. In recent years, Mr. Putin has successfully revived Russia’s tradition of one-man rule by amending the Constitution, rewriting history and clamping down on the opposition. Now he seeks to provide the system with a sturdy Great Power spine, returning to Russia its global glamour. In the past decade, Mr. Putin’s Russia not only demonstrated its readiness to resume control over the former Soviet space, testing its ambitions in Georgia and Ukraine, but also left its footprints all over the world, including through meddling in Western democracies. Yet today’s standoff over Ukraine takes things to a new level. Also Read | US ready to talk missiles and military exercises in Ukraine with Russia: Official No longer content with upsetting the West, Mr. Putin is now trying to force it to agree to a new global dispensation, with Russia restored to eminence. It doesn’t stop there, though. Crucially, the geopolitical advance would serve to safeguard Mr. Putin’s rule. So the West, by accepting Russia’s geopolitical position, would effectively underwrite its domestic agenda, too. The United States would become, at home and abroad, Russia’s security provider. It’s quite the gambit. The timing is crucial. With the European Union consumed by its own challenges and the United States’ rivalry with China yet to reach top gear, the Kremlin is seizing the moment to pursue its grand design. To do so, it could put on the war helmet at any moment. But confrontation is not the Kremlin’s goal. The escalation is about peace on Russia’s terms. Right now, it’s hard to know what comes next. Mr. Putin can’t force his Western opponents to surrender; neither is he ready to retreat. But he could use both concessions and refusals to pursue his agenda. Concessions, such as NATO explicitly pledging not to expand any further east, would be presented as victories, and refusals as the pretext for further escalation. One success is already clear: The West has been forced to reward Russia — through outreach, diplomacy and, above all, attention — for the charitable act of not invading Ukraine. Russia’s rebellion threatens to turn geopolitics into a battle of threats — force on one side, sanctions on the other. Mr. Putin’s method is tried and tested: He ratchets up the tensions and then demands “binding agreements,” which he does not take seriously. The aim, really, is a Hobbesian world order, built on disruption and readiness for surprise breakthroughs. This order has nothing in common with those fashioned at the Yalta Conference in 1945, say, or the Congress of Vienna in 1815. Their architects followed the rules. The Kremlin is suggesting something very different: the irrelevance of rules. The norms by which the world has been governed for the past three decades would be thrown out, in favor of creative interpretation of the possible. In this free-for-all, Mr. Putin — mercurial master of suspense and the sudden move — can pursue his fusion of geopolitical power and personal rule. Today, Ukraine is the jewel to fight for. But it won’t end there: Belarus, whose embattled leader relies on Russia’s support, could be the next prize in the geopolitical rivalry — or perhaps it will be Kazakhstan, where popular anger at the corrupt, Russian-backed regime has erupted. The drama is just beginning. Other neighboring countries could become hostages of Russia’s system of survival, which requires external domination for the sake of internal security. So far, the Kremlin has been extremely lucky, or extraordinarily skilled, in playing a weak hand without aces up its sleeve. It deals with a Western establishment determined to maintain the status quo, even if that means accommodation. After all, the nature of globalization precludes serious containment policy: How can the West deter Russia when it is enmeshed in a web of economic and security ties with the Russian state? Mr. Putin no doubt senses the advantage. Having dealt with the Western leaders for decades, he seems to have concluded that he can play bully. That the United States quickly agreed to start talks suggests Mr. Putin’s strategy is working: It could take months before Western partners discover that they have been engaged in an exchange of hot air. They are clearly yet to work out how to respond to the Kremlin’s policy of suspense. By forcing the world to guess what Russia is up to and pursuing mutually contradictory policy lines simultaneously, the Kremlin keeps the West disoriented. Accustomed to functioning in rational, risk-averse ways, the West doesn’t know how to react to such “organized chaos.” There are several traps into which Russia and the West could fall. The kind of sanctions the Biden administration is reportedly considering could be devastating for the Russian state and its elites, which are integrated into the West. And ordinary Russians are not going to sacrifice their living standards indefinitely for wars and antagonism. According to the independent Levada Center, in 2021 only 32 percent of Russians wanted to see Russia as “a great power respected and feared by other countries,” and just 16 percent thought the war could raise Mr. Putin’s authority. The patriotic drug of militarism has started to wear off. There is a Catch-22 for the West, too: Any bargain that would allow the Kremlin to interpret the global rules of the game would undermine Western principles. Yet rejecting the bargain could incite the Kremlin to wreck the whole shop. The world’s liberal democracies are hardly ready for a clash with a nuclear opponent. This is a deadlock, and there appears to be no way out. Both sides continue to play “who blinks first”: America and its allies have set out to reassure Ukraine of their support, while Russia has kept the hammer of military deployment ready. A meeting in Moscow on Thursday between representatives of Russia, France and Germany made little headway. Negotiations begin in earnest next week, as Russia and America — later joined by NATO members — aim to find the areas where agreement is possible and where it isn’t. It’s a tall order. And even if such efforts manage to temporarily tamp down the situation, mutual suspicion will linger. The reason is simple: For as long as Mr. Putin holds sway, his grand design will never be far away.

Ukraine is only one small part of Putin’s plans

Russia President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia did not want conflict with Ukraine or the West but clearly said that NATO should not expand eastwards towards Russia. He was speaking at his annual end-of-year press conference.

He added that Russia had received generally positive response to security proposals it handed to US this month. He said the negotiations would start early next year in Geneva.

Russia last week presented the United States and NATO with draft proposals, summarising its demands in return for a de-escalation of tensions over ex-Soviet Ukraine.

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The documents said that NATO must not admit new members into the military alliance and called for no military bases to be established in ex-Soviet countries.

"There must not be any eastward NATO expansion," Putin told journalists at his annual end-of-year press conference.

"The ball is in their court. They need to provide us with some answer," he said, but added: "Overall we see a positive reaction."

"US partners told us that they are ready to begin this discussion, these talks, at the very start of next year in Geneva," Putin said, adding that representatives from both sides have been appointed.&nbsp;

Russia's far-reaching demands were dismissed by several members of the US-led alliance.&nbsp;

Washington said it was open for discussions but is yet to provide a detailed response to Moscow's proposals.

Western governments have accused Moscow of massing troops near its border with eastern Ukraine, where Kiev has been fighting pro-Russia separatists since shortly after the annexation of Crimea in 2014.

The United States and Europe have warned Russia that it risks unprecedented sanctions should Putin launch a military attack on NATO ally Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia did not want conflict with Ukraine or the West but clearly said that NATO should not expand eastwards towards Russia.

Russia President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia did not want conflict with Ukraine or the West but clearly said that NATO should not expand eastwards towards Russia. He was speaking at his annual end-of-year press conference. He added that Russia had received generally positive response to security proposals it handed to US this month. He said the negotiations would start early next year in Geneva. Russia last week presented the United States and NATO with draft proposals, summarising its demands in return for a de-escalation of tensions over ex-Soviet Ukraine. × The documents said that NATO must not admit new members into the military alliance and called for no military bases to be established in ex-Soviet countries. "There must not be any eastward NATO expansion," Putin told journalists at his annual end-of-year press conference. "The ball is in their court. They need to provide us with some answer," he said, but added: "Overall we see a positive reaction." "US partners told us that they are ready to begin this discussion, these talks, at the very start of next year in Geneva," Putin said, adding that representatives from both sides have been appointed. Russia's far-reaching demands were dismissed by several members of the US-led alliance. Washington said it was open for discussions but is yet to provide a detailed response to Moscow's proposals. Western governments have accused Moscow of massing troops near its border with eastern Ukraine, where Kiev has been fighting pro-Russia separatists since shortly after the annexation of Crimea in 2014. The United States and Europe have warned Russia that it risks unprecedented sanctions should Putin launch a military attack on NATO ally Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Don't want conflict over Ukraine, but NATO expansion unacceptable: Putin

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