Is Russia conducting a proxy war in Ukraine? Tensions in eastern Ukraine have risen dramatically after Russia backed separatists engaged in multiple shelling incidents in Donbas.

Shelling in Donbas: NATO fears false flag operation by Russian-backed separatists

Russia-Ukraine tensions simmer: US President Joe Biden warns 'Russian invasion imminent'

After Russia threatened military actions if its security demands were not met, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine's NATO bid process is stalled.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy: Our NATO bid process is stalled

As tensions continues between Ukraine and Russia, UK PM Boris Johnson took to China's social network site Sina Weibo to warn President Putin.

Johnson said Putin still has time to "step back". However, Chinese netizens were puzzled as some asked if Putin even had a Weibo account.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-crisis-how-putin-built-russias-army-as-a-potent-force-453715">Also Read in Pics |&nbsp;Ukraine crisis: How Putin built Russia's Army as a potent force</a>

China's state-run Global Times reported that some netizens believed the UK prime minister was&nbsp;trying to "influence Chinese netizens". The Chinese daily said Johnson's post on Weibo received 32,000 comments and over 1.1 million likes.

The Russian embassy in China also did not take too kindly to the post calling it "absurd".

"This statement is designed to further inflame the hysteria surrounding the so-called imminent Russian invasion of Ukraine and is absurd," the Russian embassy said while blaming NATO for the escalation of tensions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/skyfall-avangard-sarmat-russias-new-killer-superpower-weapons-revealed-448724">Watch:</a>&nbsp;Russia's claims of withdrawing troops 'false', says US

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-russias-claims-of-withdrawing-troops-false-453884/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In a phone call with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Johnson said there was "little evidence" of Russian troops pulling back from the border. The US said on Thursday that Russia had added 7,000 more troops along Ukraine's border.

Russia had said earlier this week that it was pulling back some troops from the border after drills with Belarus and on Wednesday it said troops were returning to the barracks after drills in Crimea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/skyfall-avangard-sarmat-russias-new-killer-superpower-weapons-revealed-448724">Also Read in Pics: Skyfall, Avangard, Sarmat: Russia's new killer 'superpower' weapons revealed</a>

Tensions between Russia and Ukraine has been escalating for the past few weeks as the US has warned Putin's regime is ready to launch an attack on Kyiv with over 100,000 troops deployed along the border.

Russian officials including President Putin have&nbsp;dismissed reports, however, the Russian president has said his troops have the right to move around anywhere inside the country's territory.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As tensions continues between Ukraine and Russia, UK PM Boris Johnson took to China's social network site Sina Weibo to warn President Putin. Johnson said Putin still has time to "step back".

As tensions continues between Ukraine and Russia, UK PM Boris Johnson took to China's social network site Sina Weibo to warn President Putin. Johnson said Putin still has time to "step back". However, Chinese netizens were puzzled as some asked if Putin even had a Weibo account. Also Read in Pics | Ukraine crisis: How Putin built Russia's Army as a potent force China's state-run Global Times reported that some netizens believed the UK prime minister was trying to "influence Chinese netizens". The Chinese daily said Johnson's post on Weibo received 32,000 comments and over 1.1 million likes. The Russian embassy in China also did not take too kindly to the post calling it "absurd". "This statement is designed to further inflame the hysteria surrounding the so-called imminent Russian invasion of Ukraine and is absurd," the Russian embassy said while blaming NATO for the escalation of tensions. Watch: Russia's claims of withdrawing troops 'false', says US In a phone call with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Johnson said there was "little evidence" of Russian troops pulling back from the border. The US said on Thursday that Russia had added 7,000 more troops along Ukraine's border. Russia had said earlier this week that it was pulling back some troops from the border after drills with Belarus and on Wednesday it said troops were returning to the barracks after drills in Crimea. Also Read in Pics: Skyfall, Avangard, Sarmat: Russia's new killer 'superpower' weapons revealed Tensions between Russia and Ukraine has been escalating for the past few weeks as the US has warned Putin's regime is ready to launch an attack on Kyiv with over 100,000 troops deployed along the border. Russian officials including President Putin have dismissed reports, however, the Russian president has said his troops have the right to move around anywhere inside the country's territory. (With inputs from Agencies)

PM Johnson takes to Weibo to slam Putin; Chinese netizens, Russia slam move

While the purported Russian invasion plan of Ukraine on February 16 didn't materialize, the West remains alert, wary of Russian military build-up at the border.

The US denies Russia's claims of withdrawing troops as false amid the ongoing Ukraine crisis

The 15-member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to meet today to discuss the Ukraine crisis. Ukraine has called for the UNSC to discuss Donbass.

United Nations Security Council to meet today to discuss Ukraine crisis

Poland's Deputy Foreign Minister Marcin Przydacz sees India's role as positive amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis without taking Moscow's name and said, " You have relatively good relations with those countries. As I said, there is a possibility of India's involvement in diplomacy. "

The West is worried over a Russian invasion of Ukraine, something that Moscow has been dismissing. 
 
Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Warsaw, Minister Przydacz said, "India is one of the most important actors on the international scene and the biggest democracy."

On Poland's hosting of Ukrainian refugees, the minister pointed out, "Poland, as the neighbouring country, needs to be ready to host possible refugees. As always, we are ready to help those who are in need, but hopefully it won't happen."

Poland shares borders with Ukraine and also the Russian territory of Kaliningrad.

On Taiwan, he said, while his country "sticks to one China policy" at "economical level, we are ready to cooperate with Taipei."

Russia-Ukraine Crisis

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the current situation in eastern Europe? The last few days have been dramatic. Your foreign minister was in Moscow. How do you assess the situation?

Marcin Przydacz: First of all, thank you very much for having me. It is very important for us, the Poles, to share our assessment and perspective with the Indian public.

Your country is a very important actor on the international scene, so it is of crucial importance for us to share our perspective and opinions with you. With regards to the current situation in the central and eastern regions, as you have probably seen, Russia is continuing its aggressive posturing and policy towards Ukraine and other countries in this region.

There are more than 100,000 troops deployed just next to the Ukrainian border, so there is a kind of pressure on the Ukrainian state. The expectation from the Russian side is to somehow stop the possible integration of Ukraine into the European Union and NATO.

With a pro-western orientation, Ukraine is one of the biggest countries of the post-soviet era, Russia is not happy with the fact that Ukraine is doing better and better with regards to cooperation with the west. The living standards of the country have not dropped but increased, and it could be a very bad example for the Russian government. One day, Russian public opinion may ask how it happened that the Ukrainian nation is doing better than the Russian one.&nbsp;

So, the Russian government is trying to build some kind of sphere of influence and to build, as he said, a Soviet empire. He once said the collapse of the Soviet Union was the biggest tragedy of the 21st century, so his strategy is to rebuild, but unfortunately, it is at the cost of sovereign independent countries, Belarus, Georgia, and Ukraine.&nbsp;

We cannot allow that to happen. To rebuild the Soviet empire based on not very democratic rules. And Poland is very much in favour of peaceful cooperation and stability, and it should be up to the Ukrainian nation and society to decide what the future of their own country is. 
 
Sidhant Sibal: Do you think the war clouds have dissipated?

Marcin Przydacz: Rather than simply announcing the withdrawal of troops, we are very interested in the final decision.Once the troops are sent back home, we will welcome such a decision.

So far, we have not noticed the de-escalation, but rather the escalation. Even yesterday, a Ukrainian state organization and Ukraine's banking system were attacked in the sphere of cyber.

This aggressive behaviour by Russia is continuing rather than, as it is being said, de-escalation. We are very much in favour of de-escalation, waiting for a concrete decision rather than just talking. Diplomats are very much interested in discussing how to find a solution, but not at any cost. As diplomats, we cannot compromise on international regulation; we cannot compromise on a democratic, free world.We are ready to continue the dialogue. That is why Minister Rau, the Polish foreign affairs minister, yesterday paid a visit to Moscow to discuss a possible solution. We are the chairman of the OSCE, or Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, this year, so we do have some responsibility for European security; we are ready to discuss and talk with Russians, but the first decision we expect from our Russian neighbours is to withdraw troops from Ukraine's border and Belarus' territory.More than 30,000 Belarus troops are actively exercising on the territory of Belarus, just next to the Ukraine and Polish borders. This is pressure by the Russian state on the Ukrainian government, so that is why we had to ask our American allies to deploy NATO troops to Poland. That is why we are discussing possible sanctions on Russia in the event of further escalation. We need to be ready as the free world, democratic society, and community of the free world.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Poland fears an influx that could go up to 2-3 million. How is Poland geared up to tackle it?

Marcin Przydacz: We still do hope that the situation will be deescalated and that there will be no incursions, no Russian attacks on sovereign countries like Ukraine. We are doing our best to find a solution. We need to be prepared for a possible migration, a possible wave of refugees from Ukraine to Poland. We are trying to be ready, discussing it at a national level but also at an international level on how to deal with that. But so far, we should avoid panic inside the Ukrainian state, and that is also the decision of the Ukrainian government to stabilise the situation, not to panic. As far as I understand and as far as I know the Ukrainian people, they are ready to resist and defend their independence and sovereignty of their country, not thinking about fleeing the country. If this happens, Poland, as the neighbouring country, needs to be ready to host possible refugees. As always, we are ready to help those who are in need, but hopefully it won't happen.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: On Russia's demand for demilitarisation of states like Poland and other eastern European countries

Marcin Przydacz: Let me remind you of the history of the last 20 years. It was not Poland or NATO countries attacking other countries. It was Russia dominating other countries. NATO is the defence ally. For example, Belarus, Recently, Russia deployed its troops, in Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. In 2008, Russia attacked the independent state of Georgia, capturing or taking some parts of the territory of this country. In 2014, Russia took Crimea and part of Donbas. We are very much concerned with this aggressive policy being conducted by the Russian government. That is why we are deploying as Nato troops on the territory of NATO countries. We are not interested in sending them anywhere else. Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Romania, that was the decision of our govts to invite more allies in order to continue the policy of deterrence. What we want to show is to deter Russia and to show them we are ready to defend our country and we are ready to deter this aggressive policy of Russia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India

Sidhant Sibal: What role do you see for India in the crisis, in terms of pacifying the crisis?

Marcin Przydacz: As I said, India is one of the most important actors on the international scene and the biggest democracy. It also has the potential to have a positive impact and a positive influence on security architecture. Both of our countries stand to benefit greatly from the fact that this security architecture has helped to stabilise the global situation.Some countries, starting with Russia, are trying to challenge this architecture to change. These are authoritarian regimes. What we need to do, as democratic states, is to continue our cooperation and dialogue. As you have relatively good relations with those countries, as I said, there is a possibility of India's involvement in diplomacy. We are very much interested in continuing our dialogue. There is already talk of your officials paying a visit.

Three years ago, Minister Jaishankar was in Poland and also the situation in Eastern and Central Europe. Minister Rau was at the Raisina dialogue conference. I hope there will be a continuation of good talks, discussing how to deal with those threats and challenges based on international law and finding a way to coexist. &nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What are your thoughts on the India-Poland relationship?How do you characterise it?

Marcin Przydacz: I have to say, I welcome the current state of relations; they are developing well. Despite the pandemic, political contact remains good. It proves that our ties are close and there is still potential for further development. I hope more consultations will happen at a higher level. There are good foundations for ties. We still very much remember the fact that a very significant number of Polish migrants and refugees from Siberia during World War 2 were hosted by the Indian population and high officials. Several thousand Indian students in Poland have a significant Polish business community in your country. We need to bring back direct flights between Warsaw and New Delhi and Warsaw and Mumbai. As you know, a couple of years ago, we launched a new direct flight by LOT Polish Airlines, directly from Warsaw to Delhi, and I had the pleasure of opening this flight. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we had to stop this direct connection. I do really hope we bring it back in order to offer our citizens better people-to-people contact, because this is the most important thing in our country's relations. More Indian students and business people are very much welcomed in Poland, as well as the Polish business community, which will be welcomed in significant numbers in your country. Finally, in Poland, we are big fans of your movies and cinema industry. There have been several films shot in Poland, and we do hope this will be continued.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the cultural connection? Recently, a Polish national was honoured with the top Indian award, the Padma award.

Marcin Przydacz: As I said, Bollywood is very popular in Poland, and we do hope that we will find even more opportunities to explore this part of our relationship. You mentioned that the former envoy of Poland was granted a very important prize in India, an award in India. Academicians, politicians, or diplomats' work or jobs are very much acknowledged by the Indian government and Indian society. We need to find more opportunities in order to explore this part of our relationship. Poles are very much interested in Indian culture.

Belarus

Sidhant Sibal: How much is the worry over Belarus migrant issue for you? has it subsided or is still underway?

Marcin Przydacz: Well, you should not call it a crisis, it was the artificial crisis, very well planned by the authoritarian regime of Mr Lukashenko. He after elections, was sanctioned by the European Union and his answer, he said it publicly that he will create the refugee or the migration crisis that is why he encouraged many possible migrants from the middle east countries, from the Asian countries in order to come to Belarus and they were forcibly pushed to the border with Poland, Lithuania illegally in order to cross this border. Unfortunately, those people found themselves in a very difficult and dire situation. In winter they got stuck in a forest, legally on the territory of Belarus but basically being bullets in the hands of the authoritarian regime of Mr Lukashenko. This crisis is not over yet, hundreds of migrants in the hands of Lukashenko, waiting for the right moment to be pushed through the border. Let me also tell you, or the Indian society beware of the fact that being invited to Belarus means you can be used as a bullet in the hands of an authoritarian regime and pushed through the border. I know Belarus diplomats are very actively searching for new possibilities to bring innocent people to Belarus and then use them as political instruments against the EU, Poland. We would not like to have this with the friendly nation of India.&nbsp;

Indo-Pacific

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the Polish role or policy on the Indo-Pacific, when countries like Germany and France have been taking a lead? 
 
Marcin Przydacz: Well, first of all after regaining full sovereignty and independence. After the collapse of the soviet union, we have joined NATO, EU and the natural environment for us was to be very concentrated on EU Affairs, transatlantic affairs. Now our economy is doing very well, we are in a much better position than 30 years ago. So, a lot of business people are interested in finding a place to invest in the Indo-pacific area. Our diplomats have been quite active in your region. We are reopening our embassies. In New Delhi, it was opened years ago but recently in several countries of your region we opened embassies. There is also room for better relations with countries of the Indo-Pacific. I know China is trying to challenge several things, in the Indo-Pacific area, we have been trying to be active as well to keep the stability through the instruments we have bilaterally. At the level of the EU we have the Indo-Pacific strategy, we as Poland are very active in this discussion. Asia is the continent of 21st century. Huge potential, Poland is trying to be active in every possible level--diplomatic, political, economic cooperation and cultural collaboration.&nbsp;

China

Sidhant Sibal: China has been aggressive in Indo Pacific; how do u see Chinese actions in the region?&nbsp;

Marcin Przydacz: We stick to the One China policy, as Poland and there are a lot of challenges with regards to China but what is crucial is to keep the dialogue discussing all those issues which are problematic, just like with others. We know that India is in very good contact with Moscow although we do not prescribe Moscow's behavior very constructive in our region, let me put that diplomatically. &nbsp;W eare also trying to be active in keeping the dialogue with Beijing. Our President visited China during the Olympics, to encourage our sportsmen mostly but on the margin, he had a good and frank discussion with President Xi Jinping. So our relations with China are vivid and potential in economic cooperation but there are some issues which need to be discussed and solved and we as Poland are ready to be an active actor in regard to that.&nbsp;

Taiwan

Sidhant Sibal: Many in Europe, including your Neighbour Lithuania have upgraded ties with Taiwan. Do u plan a deeper engagement and upgradation with the country?

Marcin Przydacz: Well as I said we stick to the one China policy, but we can respect the decision of every sovereign country to have their own interest and own ideas to conduct foreign policy. It was the Lithuanian decision to follow those principles of their interest. But what I can say with regards to Taiwan, we are trying to find new possibilities on how to encourage our business people to cooperate with Taiwan. Taiwan is a big economy, there is potential at the economic level. Of Course at an economical level, we are ready to cooperate with Taipei.

Poland's Deputy Foreign Minister Marcin Przydacz sees India's role as positive amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis without taking Moscow's name and said, " You have relatively good relations with those countries.

Poland's Deputy Foreign Minister Marcin Przydacz sees India's role as positive amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis without taking Moscow's name and said, " You have relatively good relations with those countries. As I said, there is a possibility of India's involvement in diplomacy. " The West is worried over a Russian invasion of Ukraine, something that Moscow has been dismissing. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Warsaw, Minister Przydacz said, "India is one of the most important actors on the international scene and the biggest democracy." On Poland's hosting of Ukrainian refugees, the minister pointed out, "Poland, as the neighbouring country, needs to be ready to host possible refugees. As always, we are ready to help those who are in need, but hopefully it won't happen." Poland shares borders with Ukraine and also the Russian territory of Kaliningrad. On Taiwan, he said, while his country "sticks to one China policy" at "economical level, we are ready to cooperate with Taipei." Russia-Ukraine Crisis Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the current situation in eastern Europe? The last few days have been dramatic. Your foreign minister was in Moscow. How do you assess the situation? Marcin Przydacz: First of all, thank you very much for having me. It is very important for us, the Poles, to share our assessment and perspective with the Indian public. Your country is a very important actor on the international scene, so it is of crucial importance for us to share our perspective and opinions with you. With regards to the current situation in the central and eastern regions, as you have probably seen, Russia is continuing its aggressive posturing and policy towards Ukraine and other countries in this region. There are more than 100,000 troops deployed just next to the Ukrainian border, so there is a kind of pressure on the Ukrainian state. The expectation from the Russian side is to somehow stop the possible integration of Ukraine into the European Union and NATO. With a pro-western orientation, Ukraine is one of the biggest countries of the post-soviet era, Russia is not happy with the fact that Ukraine is doing better and better with regards to cooperation with the west. The living standards of the country have not dropped but increased, and it could be a very bad example for the Russian government. One day, Russian public opinion may ask how it happened that the Ukrainian nation is doing better than the Russian one. So, the Russian government is trying to build some kind of sphere of influence and to build, as he said, a Soviet empire. He once said the collapse of the Soviet Union was the biggest tragedy of the 21st century, so his strategy is to rebuild, but unfortunately, it is at the cost of sovereign independent countries, Belarus, Georgia, and Ukraine. We cannot allow that to happen. To rebuild the Soviet empire based on not very democratic rules. And Poland is very much in favour of peaceful cooperation and stability, and it should be up to the Ukrainian nation and society to decide what the future of their own country is. Sidhant Sibal: Do you think the war clouds have dissipated? Marcin Przydacz: Rather than simply announcing the withdrawal of troops, we are very interested in the final decision.Once the troops are sent back home, we will welcome such a decision. So far, we have not noticed the de-escalation, but rather the escalation. Even yesterday, a Ukrainian state organization and Ukraine's banking system were attacked in the sphere of cyber. This aggressive behaviour by Russia is continuing rather than, as it is being said, de-escalation. We are very much in favour of de-escalation, waiting for a concrete decision rather than just talking. Diplomats are very much interested in discussing how to find a solution, but not at any cost. As diplomats, we cannot compromise on international regulation; we cannot compromise on a democratic, free world.We are ready to continue the dialogue. That is why Minister Rau, the Polish foreign affairs minister, yesterday paid a visit to Moscow to discuss a possible solution. We are the chairman of the OSCE, or Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, this year, so we do have some responsibility for European security; we are ready to discuss and talk with Russians, but the first decision we expect from our Russian neighbours is to withdraw troops from Ukraine's border and Belarus' territory.More than 30,000 Belarus troops are actively exercising on the territory of Belarus, just next to the Ukraine and Polish borders. This is pressure by the Russian state on the Ukrainian government, so that is why we had to ask our American allies to deploy NATO troops to Poland. That is why we are discussing possible sanctions on Russia in the event of further escalation. We need to be ready as the free world, democratic society, and community of the free world. Sidhant Sibal: Poland fears an influx that could go up to 2-3 million. How is Poland geared up to tackle it? Marcin Przydacz: We still do hope that the situation will be deescalated and that there will be no incursions, no Russian attacks on sovereign countries like Ukraine. We are doing our best to find a solution. We need to be prepared for a possible migration, a possible wave of refugees from Ukraine to Poland. We are trying to be ready, discussing it at a national level but also at an international level on how to deal with that. But so far, we should avoid panic inside the Ukrainian state, and that is also the decision of the Ukrainian government to stabilise the situation, not to panic. As far as I understand and as far as I know the Ukrainian people, they are ready to resist and defend their independence and sovereignty of their country, not thinking about fleeing the country. If this happens, Poland, as the neighbouring country, needs to be ready to host possible refugees. As always, we are ready to help those who are in need, but hopefully it won't happen. Sidhant Sibal: On Russia's demand for demilitarisation of states like Poland and other eastern European countries Marcin Przydacz: Let me remind you of the history of the last 20 years. It was not Poland or NATO countries attacking other countries. It was Russia dominating other countries. NATO is the defence ally. For example, Belarus, Recently, Russia deployed its troops, in Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. In 2008, Russia attacked the independent state of Georgia, capturing or taking some parts of the territory of this country. In 2014, Russia took Crimea and part of Donbas. We are very much concerned with this aggressive policy being conducted by the Russian government. That is why we are deploying as Nato troops on the territory of NATO countries. We are not interested in sending them anywhere else. Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Romania, that was the decision of our govts to invite more allies in order to continue the policy of deterrence. What we want to show is to deter Russia and to show them we are ready to defend our country and we are ready to deter this aggressive policy of Russia. India Sidhant Sibal: What role do you see for India in the crisis, in terms of pacifying the crisis? Marcin Przydacz: As I said, India is one of the most important actors on the international scene and the biggest democracy. It also has the potential to have a positive impact and a positive influence on security architecture. Both of our countries stand to benefit greatly from the fact that this security architecture has helped to stabilise the global situation.Some countries, starting with Russia, are trying to challenge this architecture to change. These are authoritarian regimes. What we need to do, as democratic states, is to continue our cooperation and dialogue. As you have relatively good relations with those countries, as I said, there is a possibility of India's involvement in diplomacy. We are very much interested in continuing our dialogue. There is already talk of your officials paying a visit. Three years ago, Minister Jaishankar was in Poland and also the situation in Eastern and Central Europe. Minister Rau was at the Raisina dialogue conference. I hope there will be a continuation of good talks, discussing how to deal with those threats and challenges based on international law and finding a way to coexist. Sidhant Sibal: What are your thoughts on the India-Poland relationship?How do you characterise it? Marcin Przydacz: I have to say, I welcome the current state of relations; they are developing well. Despite the pandemic, political contact remains good. It proves that our ties are close and there is still potential for further development. I hope more consultations will happen at a higher level. There are good foundations for ties. We still very much remember the fact that a very significant number of Polish migrants and refugees from Siberia during World War 2 were hosted by the Indian population and high officials. Several thousand Indian students in Poland have a significant Polish business community in your country. We need to bring back direct flights between Warsaw and New Delhi and Warsaw and Mumbai. As you know, a couple of years ago, we launched a new direct flight by LOT Polish Airlines, directly from Warsaw to Delhi, and I had the pleasure of opening this flight. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we had to stop this direct connection. I do really hope we bring it back in order to offer our citizens better people-to-people contact, because this is the most important thing in our country's relations. More Indian students and business people are very much welcomed in Poland, as well as the Polish business community, which will be welcomed in significant numbers in your country. Finally, in Poland, we are big fans of your movies and cinema industry. There have been several films shot in Poland, and we do hope this will be continued. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the cultural connection? Recently, a Polish national was honoured with the top Indian award, the Padma award. Marcin Przydacz: As I said, Bollywood is very popular in Poland, and we do hope that we will find even more opportunities to explore this part of our relationship. You mentioned that the former envoy of Poland was granted a very important prize in India, an award in India. Academicians, politicians, or diplomats' work or jobs are very much acknowledged by the Indian government and Indian society. We need to find more opportunities in order to explore this part of our relationship. Poles are very much interested in Indian culture. Belarus Sidhant Sibal: How much is the worry over Belarus migrant issue for you? has it subsided or is still underway? Marcin Przydacz: Well, you should not call it a crisis, it was the artificial crisis, very well planned by the authoritarian regime of Mr Lukashenko. He after elections, was sanctioned by the European Union and his answer, he said it publicly that he will create the refugee or the migration crisis that is why he encouraged many possible migrants from the middle east countries, from the Asian countries in order to come to Belarus and they were forcibly pushed to the border with Poland, Lithuania illegally in order to cross this border. Unfortunately, those people found themselves in a very difficult and dire situation. In winter they got stuck in a forest, legally on the territory of Belarus but basically being bullets in the hands of the authoritarian regime of Mr Lukashenko. This crisis is not over yet, hundreds of migrants in the hands of Lukashenko, waiting for the right moment to be pushed through the border. Let me also tell you, or the Indian society beware of the fact that being invited to Belarus means you can be used as a bullet in the hands of an authoritarian regime and pushed through the border. I know Belarus diplomats are very actively searching for new possibilities to bring innocent people to Belarus and then use them as political instruments against the EU, Poland. We would not like to have this with the friendly nation of India. Indo-Pacific Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the Polish role or policy on the Indo-Pacific, when countries like Germany and France have been taking a lead? Marcin Przydacz: Well, first of all after regaining full sovereignty and independence. After the collapse of the soviet union, we have joined NATO, EU and the natural environment for us was to be very concentrated on EU Affairs, transatlantic affairs. Now our economy is doing very well, we are in a much better position than 30 years ago. So, a lot of business people are interested in finding a place to invest in the Indo-pacific area. Our diplomats have been quite active in your region. We are reopening our embassies. In New Delhi, it was opened years ago but recently in several countries of your region we opened embassies. There is also room for better relations with countries of the Indo-Pacific. I know China is trying to challenge several things, in the Indo-Pacific area, we have been trying to be active as well to keep the stability through the instruments we have bilaterally. At the level of the EU we have the Indo-Pacific strategy, we as Poland are very active in this discussion. Asia is the continent of 21st century. Huge potential, Poland is trying to be active in every possible level--diplomatic, political, economic cooperation and cultural collaboration. China Sidhant Sibal: China has been aggressive in Indo Pacific; how do u see Chinese actions in the region? Marcin Przydacz: We stick to the One China policy, as Poland and there are a lot of challenges with regards to China but what is crucial is to keep the dialogue discussing all those issues which are problematic, just like with others. We know that India is in very good contact with Moscow although we do not prescribe Moscow's behavior very constructive in our region, let me put that diplomatically. W eare also trying to be active in keeping the dialogue with Beijing. Our President visited China during the Olympics, to encourage our sportsmen mostly but on the margin, he had a good and frank discussion with President Xi Jinping. So our relations with China are vivid and potential in economic cooperation but there are some issues which need to be discussed and solved and we as Poland are ready to be an active actor in regard to that. Taiwan Sidhant Sibal: Many in Europe, including your Neighbour Lithuania have upgraded ties with Taiwan. Do u plan a deeper engagement and upgradation with the country? Marcin Przydacz: Well as I said we stick to the one China policy, but we can respect the decision of every sovereign country to have their own interest and own ideas to conduct foreign policy. It was the Lithuanian decision to follow those principles of their interest. But what I can say with regards to Taiwan, we are trying to find new possibilities on how to encourage our business people to cooperate with Taiwan. Taiwan is a big economy, there is potential at the economic level. Of Course at an economical level, we are ready to cooperate with Taipei.

Poland's Minister Przydacz sees India's 'positive' role amid the Ukraine-Russia crisis

Russian lawmakers have called on Vladimir Putin to recognize rebel-held areas in eastern Ukraine as independent states. Putin has called for the conflict in Donbass to be resolved through the Minsk peace process while also describing the situation in the region as a genocide.

'Kyiv's actions in Donbass genocide,' says Russian president Vladimir Putin

Ukraine crisis: 'Donbass is committing genocide,' says Russian President Vladimir Putin

In further signs of de-escalation over Ukraine crisis, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (February 15) that he was 'ready to work further together' with the West on security issues. He was speaking in a joint press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz who was in Moscow on Tuesday.

"We are ready to work further together. We are ready to go down the negotiations track," Putin told a press conference following talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Moscow.

<img alt="Putin Scholz" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9c748410-a9bc-464c-8510-a343be5c55b1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_322J2CM%20%281%29.jpg" />

Putin repeated his claim that Russia did not want a war over Ukraine crisis. Russia has attracted allegations from the West of wanting to start a war after it amassed more than 100,000 troops near border with Ukraine, a former Soviet republic.

"Do we want this or not? Of course, not. That is exactly why we put forward proposals for a process of negotiations," Putin said.

However, Putin maintained that Russia's demands had not had constructive response. He also described situation in east Ukraine's breakaway regions as 'genocide'. He called for&nbsp;the conflict there to be resolved through the Minsk peace progress.

Frantic diplomacy has been on for quite some time to avert a war in Europe. First signs of de-escalation were seen on Monday (February 14) when Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-climbdown-lavrov-tells-putin-about-chance-of-agreement-with-west-453248">told Putin that there was a 'chance' of working</a> with Western countries to calm tensions.

On Tuesday, Russian defence ministry said that some of the Russian troops stationed near the border <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-pulls-back-some-troops-from-ukraine-border-kyiv-says-we-will-see-then-believe-453452">had begun to pull back</a> to their bases.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday welcomed Russia's announcement that some troops deployed near Ukraine would be pulled back as a "good sign" toward easing tensions.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-pulls-back-some-troops-from-ukraine-border-kyiv-says-we-will-see-then-believe-453452">Russia pulls back some troops from Ukraine border, Kyiv says ‘we will see, then believe’</a>

"That we are now hearing that some troops are being withdrawn is in any case a good sign," he told reporters after talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. "We hope that more follow."

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said Tuesday Russia was a crucial player in maintaining security in Europe, after talks with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

"For Europeans it is clear that lasting security cannot be achieved against Russia but only with Russia," he told reporters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In further signs of de-escalation over Ukraine crisis, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (February 15) that he was 'ready to work further together' with the West on security issues.

In further signs of de-escalation over Ukraine crisis, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (February 15) that he was 'ready to work further together' with the West on security issues. He was speaking in a joint press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz who was in Moscow on Tuesday. "We are ready to work further together. We are ready to go down the negotiations track," Putin told a press conference following talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Moscow. Putin repeated his claim that Russia did not want a war over Ukraine crisis. Russia has attracted allegations from the West of wanting to start a war after it amassed more than 100,000 troops near border with Ukraine, a former Soviet republic. "Do we want this or not? Of course, not. That is exactly why we put forward proposals for a process of negotiations," Putin said. However, Putin maintained that Russia's demands had not had constructive response. He also described situation in east Ukraine's breakaway regions as 'genocide'. He called for the conflict there to be resolved through the Minsk peace progress. Frantic diplomacy has been on for quite some time to avert a war in Europe. First signs of de-escalation were seen on Monday (February 14) when Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told Putin that there was a 'chance' of working with Western countries to calm tensions. On Tuesday, Russian defence ministry said that some of the Russian troops stationed near the border had begun to pull back to their bases. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday welcomed Russia's announcement that some troops deployed near Ukraine would be pulled back as a "good sign" toward easing tensions. Also Read | Russia pulls back some troops from Ukraine border, Kyiv says ‘we will see, then believe’ "That we are now hearing that some troops are being withdrawn is in any case a good sign," he told reporters after talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. "We hope that more follow." German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said Tuesday Russia was a crucial player in maintaining security in Europe, after talks with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. "For Europeans it is clear that lasting security cannot be achieved against Russia but only with Russia," he told reporters. (With inputs from agencies)

'Ready to work together' with the West, says Putin in joint press conference with Olaf Scholz

Ukraine is demanding evidence from Washington after US officials claimed that Russia will invade "any day". Western governments are also asking their nationals to leave Ukraine immediately. Palki Sharma tells you why Washington is drumming up panic.

Gravitas: US says Russian invasion "any day"

In a call meant to defuse tensions in Ukraine, US President Joe Biden has told Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Saturday that the West would respond decisively if invasion occurs. &nbsp;

The US leader warned that such a step would produce great suffering and isolate Russia. &nbsp;

The hour-long phone call was the latest effort to manage growing hostility in the region. It seems to have not provided any breakthroughs. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-tells-allies-russia-may-attack-ukraine-on-february-16-reports-452685">Biden tells allies Russia may attack Ukraine on February 16: Reports</a>

The call was professional and substantive, but there was no fundamental change, a senior Biden administration official said. &nbsp;

Putin told Biden that Washington has failed to take Russia's main concerns into account, the Kremlin said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This comes as Portugal, Israel and Belgium urged their citizens to leave Ukraine immediately. &nbsp;

Israel has also begun evacuating the family members of diplomats and Israeli staff at its embassy in Kiev. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-pulls-out-some-diplomatic-staff-from-ukraine-as-tensions-with-west-intensify-452664">Russia pulls out some diplomatic staff from Ukraine as tensions intensify</a>

On Sunday, Australia said that it is evacuating its embassy in Kyiv. Prime Minister Scott Morrison called on China to speak up for Ukraine and not remain "chillingly silent". &nbsp;

"The coalition of autocracies that we are seeing, seeking to bully other countries, is not something that Australia ever takes a light position on," Morrison said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a call meant to defuse tensions in Ukraine, US President Joe Biden has told Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Saturday that the West would respond decisively if invasion occurs.

In a call meant to defuse tensions in Ukraine, US President Joe Biden has told Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Saturday that the West would respond decisively if invasion occurs. The US leader warned that such a step would produce great suffering and isolate Russia. The hour-long phone call was the latest effort to manage growing hostility in the region. It seems to have not provided any breakthroughs. Also Read | Biden tells allies Russia may attack Ukraine on February 16: Reports The call was professional and substantive, but there was no fundamental change, a senior Biden administration official said. Putin told Biden that Washington has failed to take Russia's main concerns into account, the Kremlin said. This comes as Portugal, Israel and Belgium urged their citizens to leave Ukraine immediately. Israel has also begun evacuating the family members of diplomats and Israeli staff at its embassy in Kiev. Also Read: Russia pulls out some diplomatic staff from Ukraine as tensions intensify On Sunday, Australia said that it is evacuating its embassy in Kyiv. Prime Minister Scott Morrison called on China to speak up for Ukraine and not remain "chillingly silent". "The coalition of autocracies that we are seeing, seeking to bully other countries, is not something that Australia ever takes a light position on," Morrison said. (With inputs from agencies)

West will respond decisively if Ukraine invasion occurs, Biden tells Putin

United States has once again reiterated its warning that Russia could invade Ukraine at any moment. In the latest, Ukraine has called for a meeting with Russia other signatories to the Vienna Document signatories within 48 hours to address and discuss the current situation. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Kyiv warns of immediate sanctions if Russia attacks.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Kyiv warns of immediate sanctions if Russia attacks

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told President Vladimir Putin during a carefully choreographed meeting on Monday that there was "always a chance" to find agreement with West on security concerns. The words appeared to be contributory to an apparent&nbsp;Russian climbdown. However, the situation would depend on what happens next.

"As head of the foreign ministry, I must say that there is always a chance" to find agreement, Lavrov told Putin.

The United States has warned that a Russian invasion of Ukraine could be imminent, and their western allies have threatened a crippling package of economic sanctions in response.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-eu-preparing-but-unsure-about-russias-next-move-453236">Ukraine crisis: EU preparing but unsure about Russia's next move&nbsp;</a>

But speaking to Putin, Lavrov indicated that Moscow was prepared to continue talks with the West.

"Is there a chance to reach an agreement with our partners on key issues or is it an attempt to drag us into an endless negotiation process?" Putin asked Lavrov in televised remarks.

Lavrov replied: "Our possibilities are far from being exhausted, they certainly should not continue indefinitely, but I would suggest continuing and ramping them up."

He pointed out that German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was set to arrive in Moscow for talks Tuesday.

Russia continues to maintain military presence of more than 100,000 troops near Ukraine. Although it claims that it did not have invasion in mind, various statements from the Russian camps are being taken to be an effort towards creating a pre-text.

Russian stock markets surge

Russia's main stock market reacted positively to the news of Lavrov talking of 'chance' of agreement with the West. Russian currency ruble clawed back some losses.

The RTS index was down just over two percent in late afternoon trading, as other world markets also came off their lows.

It had dipped more than four percent in earlier trading, as Western countries feared Moscow was preparing for an imminent invasion of Ukraine.

Since the start of the year, the RTS index has shed around nine percent.

The Russian currency, meanwhile, traded at more than 76 rubles to the dollar. It had passed the 80 rubles to the dollar mark in January, a first since November 2020.

The euro stood at more than 86 rubles.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told President Vladimir Putin during a carefully choreographed meeting on Monday that there was "always a chance" to find agreement with West on security concerns.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told President Vladimir Putin during a carefully choreographed meeting on Monday that there was "always a chance" to find agreement with West on security concerns. The words appeared to be contributory to an apparent Russian climbdown. However, the situation would depend on what happens next. "As head of the foreign ministry, I must say that there is always a chance" to find agreement, Lavrov told Putin. The United States has warned that a Russian invasion of Ukraine could be imminent, and their western allies have threatened a crippling package of economic sanctions in response. Also Read | Ukraine crisis: EU preparing but unsure about Russia's next move But speaking to Putin, Lavrov indicated that Moscow was prepared to continue talks with the West. "Is there a chance to reach an agreement with our partners on key issues or is it an attempt to drag us into an endless negotiation process?" Putin asked Lavrov in televised remarks. Lavrov replied: "Our possibilities are far from being exhausted, they certainly should not continue indefinitely, but I would suggest continuing and ramping them up." He pointed out that German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was set to arrive in Moscow for talks Tuesday. Russia continues to maintain military presence of more than 100,000 troops near Ukraine. Although it claims that it did not have invasion in mind, various statements from the Russian camps are being taken to be an effort towards creating a pre-text. Russian stock markets surge Russia's main stock market reacted positively to the news of Lavrov talking of 'chance' of agreement with the West. Russian currency ruble clawed back some losses. The RTS index was down just over two percent in late afternoon trading, as other world markets also came off their lows. It had dipped more than four percent in earlier trading, as Western countries feared Moscow was preparing for an imminent invasion of Ukraine. Since the start of the year, the RTS index has shed around nine percent. The Russian currency, meanwhile, traded at more than 76 rubles to the dollar. It had passed the 80 rubles to the dollar mark in January, a first since November 2020. The euro stood at more than 86 rubles. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian climbdown? Lavrov tells Putin about 'chance' of agreement with West

Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba: Comments taken out of context

At least 10 countries have asked their citizens to leave Ukraine before tensions escalate further. These panicked warnings came after US issued a warning saying that Russia could attack Ukraine any day now. WION brings you more insights.

Ukraine vows to keep its airspace open as airlines weigh flight services to Kyiv

United States has once again reiterated its warning that Russia could invade Ukraine at any moment. In the latest, Ukraine has called for a meeting with Russia other signatories to the Vienna Document signatories within 48 hours to address and discuss the current situation.

The US reaffirms dire warning on the possible Russian invasion

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A hundred thousand Russian troops camped out at Ukraine's border. Kyiv has been seeking to shore up its military equipment if it ever needs to face a Russian invasion. Turkish drone to play a big role in Ukraine's offence

Turkish drone to play a big role in Ukraine's offence amid tensions with Russia

There is a potential war brewing in Eastern Europe. NATO countries are growing wary because Russia is keeping its cards too close to its chest. World leaders are banking on diplomatic talks, but there have been no breakthroughs so far.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to speak to US President Joe Biden as tensions mount

Every conflict eventually boils down to the numbers. Who has the bigger army? Who has more fighter jets and artillery? So how do the Russian and Ukrainian armies compare? Palki Sharma Upadhyay breaks down the numbers for you.

Russia Vs Ukraine: How do the Armies compare? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay explain

As Russian invasion fears loom, countries urge their citizens to leave Ukraine

The US has said that the Russian invasion of Ukraine is possible even before the end of the Beijing Winter Olympics. The US has repeated its warning of severe sanctions on Russia. Meanwhile, Military drills have intensified across Eastern Europe

US-Russia faceoff near Pacific Islands amid Ukraine conflict

Ukrainian PM urges people not to panic as nations ask their citizens to leave Ukraine

Joe Biden warned Russian president Vladimir Putin that the US would impose swift and severe costs on Russia if his forces invaded Ukraine. The warning comes as US officials say a Russian invasion could begin "at any time."

US: Prepared for diplomacy & other scenarios over Ukraine crisis

Watch ground report on the Georgia National Legion Head Quarters, where 17,000 foreign fighters from 27 nations are training in Ukraine against possible Russian invasion.

Ground report on the Georgia National Legion: 17,000 foreign fighters from 27 nations are in Ukraine

No breakthrough on Ukraine after US President Biden & Russian President Putin's call

Amid the rising tensions between the West and Russia, French President Emmanuel Macron dialled Russian President Vladimir Putin.

French President Emmanuel Macron speaks to Russian President Vladimir Putin amid Ukraine conflict

Thousands of people hold a rally in support of the Ukrainian government in Kyiv as tensions mount over Russian invasion fears.

Thousands march in Kyiv in a show of support to the Ukrainian government amid Russian invasion fears

Russia accuses the West of seeking to provoke a conflict

US, British and Norweigan nationals have been asked to leave Ukraine as war tensions with Russia mount over the Ukraine crisis. Meanwhile, the UK has urged Russia to step back from conflict.

Efforts at shuttle diplomacy by the the West continues amid Russian invasion fears

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