Amidst the shelling, sandbags and security forces clashing, these musicians are playing to add their bit of sweetness to the bitter air in Odesa, Ukraine.

Melodious background to Ukraine's bitter reality

Beyond conventional wisdom, more than the loss of finance, strategy, and economy, there lies a much deeper, often immeasurable - the human cost of war.

Ukraine-Russia Conflict: The Human Cost Of War

The devastation that Ukraine is facing has sparked a new debate among Americans, with many claiming that if the embattled Ukrainians were privy to guns they could've defended their country better. Let's take a look at what's being said.

USA debates: Could Ukrainians have defended their country better if they owned more guns?

American brands like Apple, Google, Ford, and Harley-Davidson have stopped sales and distanced themselves from Russia

Ukraine-Russia Conflict: Apple stops sales in Russia

Russian invasion has claimed dozens of civilian lives, forced hundreds and thousands of Ukrainians to flee west and could, according to the EU, eventually displace up to seven million people. This is what the leaders had to say... #ukraine #russia #ukraineconflict

Russian-Ukraine Crisis: Who said what on the situation

As the conflict in Ukraine intensifies, Russian President Vladimir Putin has placed nuclear forces on high alert. It supposedly holds the world's biggest nuclear arsenal. With Putin's announcement, fear of an outbreak of a nuclear war has grown. But what are Russia's nuclear capabilities?

Fear of nuclear war grows. How big is Russia's arsenal?

As Russia has invaded Ukraine, there's a high level of distress and chaos around. Here's a compilation of some visuals from Ukraine. #Ukraine #Russia #UkraineCrisis

Ukraine Under attack - The visuals of Distress and Chaos | Ukraine crisis

A look at the impact on commodities and markets amid the Russia-Ukraine crisis.

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Impact on commodities, markets

Here is a quick summary of the responses of world leaders so far on Russia's move in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin sends troops in eastern Ukraine, this is how the world reacted

Russia seems to have been making new field deployments of armored equipment and troops near the border with Ukraine, said a private US company citing satellite images on Sunday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The director of US-based Maxar Technologies has said that the new activity indicated increased military readiness. &nbsp;

The firm, which has also released the images, has been tracking the buildup of Russian forces for weeks. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-to-meet-russian-counterpart-vladimir-putin-till-he-halts-ukraine-invasion-454912" hreflang="en">Biden to meet Putin till he halts Ukraine invasion</a>

In a release, Maxar on Sunday said, "This new activity represents a change in the pattern of the previously observed deployments of battle groups (tanks, armored personnel carriers, artillery and support equipment)." &nbsp;

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According to satellite images, many large deployments of battle groups have been observed around the military garrison at Soloti, Russia, as of February 13, Maxar said. &nbsp;

On Sunday, the images showed that most combat units and support equipment at Soloti had departed. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Throughout the area, vehicle tracks and some convoys of armored equipment were witnessed, the company said. &nbsp;

On the basis of the tracks and the snow, the activity looked to be recent, Stephen Wood, senior director, Maxar News Bureau, told Reuters. &nbsp;

"To me, it indicates an increased state of readiness," Wood said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russia seems to have been making new field deployments of armored equipment and troops near the border with Ukraine, said a private US company citing satellite images on Sunday.

Russia seems to have been making new field deployments of armored equipment and troops near the border with Ukraine, said a private US company citing satellite images on Sunday. The director of US-based Maxar Technologies has said that the new activity indicated increased military readiness. The firm, which has also released the images, has been tracking the buildup of Russian forces for weeks. Also Read: Biden to meet Putin till he halts Ukraine invasion In a release, Maxar on Sunday said, "This new activity represents a change in the pattern of the previously observed deployments of battle groups (tanks, armored personnel carriers, artillery and support equipment)." According to satellite images, many large deployments of battle groups have been observed around the military garrison at Soloti, Russia, as of February 13, Maxar said. On Sunday, the images showed that most combat units and support equipment at Soloti had departed. Also Read | Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be protected: China Throughout the area, vehicle tracks and some convoys of armored equipment were witnessed, the company said. On the basis of the tracks and the snow, the activity looked to be recent, Stephen Wood, senior director, Maxar News Bureau, told Reuters. "To me, it indicates an increased state of readiness," Wood said. (With inputs from agencies)

Satellite images indicate new Russian deployments near Ukraine border, says US company

US intelligence reports wrongly predicted February 16 as the date of Russia's invasion. On the same day, Moscow announced that several soldiers and tanks are returning after military drills. Why did the west drum up fears of war? Has Putin abandoned his invasion plan? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: US intel fails, Russia says troops returning

For weeks after hearing about Russian troop deployment, more and more troops gathering near Ukraine's borders but now Moscow has announced that some troops are returning back to the base which could be a sign of de-escalation, more in our next report.

Russia begins partial troop pullback from Ukraine border; NATO urges caution

Russia and Belarus have kicked off a massive military drill along Ukraine's northern border. NATO believes the drills could be a pretext for Russia to invade Ukraine. Amid military drills and manoeuvres, is the window for diplomacy shrinking? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Russia-Belarus joint drills kick off

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.

Ukraine Conflict: First US reinforcement troops for EU arrive in Germany

Amid tensions with Russia at the border, Ukraine's defence minister said Russia is ready for "large scale escalation" at the end of January.

Ukraine's defence minister Oleksii Reznikov warned that the country's intelligence sources have analysed the "worst" scenario.

Kyiv has been warning about a possible invasion by Russia for weeks amid reports of troop movement inside the country although Putin has dismissed reports of an invasion asserting that it had the right to move troops inside its territory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?&nbsp;</a>

Reznikov added that Russia had gathered over 94,000 troops near Ukraine's border while asserting that it was ready to fight back if an attack was launched by Putin's regime. Kremlin described Ukraine's allegation as "nonsense".

The country's defence minister said efforts are underway to build naval bases around Crimea to fortify its defences.

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Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov had earlier asked Antony Blinken to ensure NATO will not extend its influence to its border amid tensions with Ukraine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-russia-tested-s-400-missiles-in-crimea-amid-operation-sea-breeze-in-ukraine-395351">Also Read:&nbsp;Why Russia tested S-400 missiles in Crimea amid operation Sea Breeze in Ukraine</a>

The US secretary of state had warned Russia over its alleged plan to invade Ukraine even as reports said Kremlin announced President Putin and US President Biden are set to talk over a video link in the next few days.

Kremlin said it has a "concrete" date and time for the two presidents to talk over the video link. Apart from Ukraine, the two leaders may also speak on Afghanistan, Libya and the summit in Geneva in June among other issues.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions with Russia at the border, Ukraine's defence minister said Russia is ready for "large scale escalation" at the end of January. Ukraine's defence minister Oleksii Reznikov warned that the country's intelligence sources have analysed the "worst" scenario.

Amid tensions with Russia at the border, Ukraine's defence minister said Russia is ready for "large scale escalation" at the end of January. Ukraine's defence minister Oleksii Reznikov warned that the country's intelligence sources have analysed the "worst" scenario. Kyiv has been warning about a possible invasion by Russia for weeks amid reports of troop movement inside the country although Putin has dismissed reports of an invasion asserting that it had the right to move troops inside its territory. Also Read in Pics: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? Reznikov added that Russia had gathered over 94,000 troops near Ukraine's border while asserting that it was ready to fight back if an attack was launched by Putin's regime. Kremlin described Ukraine's allegation as "nonsense". The country's defence minister said efforts are underway to build naval bases around Crimea to fortify its defences. Also Read in Pics: What's behind Putin's 'unpreventable strike' gambit Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov had earlier asked Antony Blinken to ensure NATO will not extend its influence to its border amid tensions with Ukraine. Also Read: Why Russia tested S-400 missiles in Crimea amid operation Sea Breeze in Ukraine The US secretary of state had warned Russia over its alleged plan to invade Ukraine even as reports said Kremlin announced President Putin and US President Biden are set to talk over a video link in the next few days. Kremlin said it has a "concrete" date and time for the two presidents to talk over the video link. Apart from Ukraine, the two leaders may also speak on Afghanistan, Libya and the summit in Geneva in June among other issues. (With inputs from Agencies)

Large scale escalation from Russia in January, warns Ukraine's defence minister

As fresh tensions build up between the US and Russia over reported military build-up near Ukraine border, Moscow on Saturday clarified that President Vladimir Putin has no plans to launch an offensive against the neighbouring country,&nbsp;news agency ANI reported.

Speaking to Greek TV channel ANT1, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that purported military build-up near its borders was in response to US military’s presence in Ukraine.

When asked whether Putin was planning to carry out an attack on Ukraine Peskov was quoted as saying, "No, the problem is very simple".

He added, "Russia is moving its forces within its territory, and we can move our forces in any direction we want and closer to the areas that could pose a threat [and currently] we see US warplanes landing in Ukraine and US military equipment approaching our borders.”&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-warns-russia-on-strategic-mistake-over-military-action-in-ukraine-436071">UK warns Russia on 'strategic mistake' over military action in Ukraine</a>

Peskov’s response came a week after US intelligence officials claimed that Russia was planning for a possible military offensive against Ukraine “that could begin as soon as early 2022 and would include an estimated 1,75,000 personnel”.

The new intelligence finding estimates that half of the Russian personnel are already deployed along various points near Ukraine's border, news agency AP quoted a Biden administration official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Read in Pics:&nbsp;What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?</a>

Earlier on Friday, US President Joe Biden said that he would make it “very, very difficult” for Russia to launch any invasion of Ukraine, which warned that a large-scale attack could be planned for next month.

The US president told reporters he was putting together “the most comprehensive and meaningful set of initiatives to make it very, very difficult for Mr Putin to go ahead and do what people are worried he may do”.

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Moscow seized Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and has since backed separatists fighting Kyiv in the east of the country. The conflict has left more than 13,000 dead.

(With inputs from agencies)

As fresh tensions build up between the US and Russia over reported military build-up near Ukraine border, Moscow on Saturday clarified that President Vladimir Putin has no plans to launch an offensive against the neighbouring country, news agency ANI reported.

As fresh tensions build up between the US and Russia over reported military build-up near Ukraine border, Moscow on Saturday clarified that President Vladimir Putin has no plans to launch an offensive against the neighbouring country, news agency ANI reported. Speaking to Greek TV channel ANT1, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that purported military build-up near its borders was in response to US military’s presence in Ukraine. When asked whether Putin was planning to carry out an attack on Ukraine Peskov was quoted as saying, "No, the problem is very simple". He added, "Russia is moving its forces within its territory, and we can move our forces in any direction we want and closer to the areas that could pose a threat [and currently] we see US warplanes landing in Ukraine and US military equipment approaching our borders.” Also read | UK warns Russia on 'strategic mistake' over military action in Ukraine Peskov’s response came a week after US intelligence officials claimed that Russia was planning for a possible military offensive against Ukraine “that could begin as soon as early 2022 and would include an estimated 1,75,000 personnel”. The new intelligence finding estimates that half of the Russian personnel are already deployed along various points near Ukraine's border, news agency AP quoted a Biden administration official who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Read in Pics: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? Earlier on Friday, US President Joe Biden said that he would make it “very, very difficult” for Russia to launch any invasion of Ukraine, which warned that a large-scale attack could be planned for next month. The US president told reporters he was putting together “the most comprehensive and meaningful set of initiatives to make it very, very difficult for Mr Putin to go ahead and do what people are worried he may do”. Also Read: NATO chief turns down Russia's demand to deny Ukraine entry Moscow seized Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and has since backed separatists fighting Kyiv in the east of the country. The conflict has left more than 13,000 dead. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine row: US military equipment approaching our borders, says Russia while admitting own troop buildup

As Russia and Ukraine tensions at the border continue, US President Joe Biden said Putin "has to do something" while adding that "my guess is he will move in".

"What I'm concerned about is this could get out of hand, very easily get out of hand&nbsp;because of the borders of Ukraine and what Russia may or may not do," the US president&nbsp;said.

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Biden expressed fears that if Russia attacked Ukraine there could be "short of a full-blown nuclear war".

"He's not in a very good position to dominate the world," Biden said referring to Putin. The US president added that a summit to defuse the Ukraine crisis could be a "possibility" while also warning of heavy human casualties in case of a war.

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine on target of Russian nukes?

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Thousands of Russian troops have massed at the border worrying the US and Ukraine. Putin had dismissed reports that his troops are set to attack Ukraine asserting that soldiers can move around anywhere inside the border.

"It's one thing if it's a minor incursion, and then we end up having a fight about what to do and not do," Biden said.

However, the White House warned that Russia could launch an attack on Ukraine between mid-January and mid-February as&nbsp; 
White House press secretary Jen Psaki said an attack on Ukraine "will be met with a swift, severe, and united response from the United States and our allies."

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"If they actually do what they're capable of doing with the force they've massed on the border, it is going to be a disaster for Russia," Biden said, adding that his administration was ready to impose "severe costs" and that there would be "significant damage" to the Russian economy.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As Russia and Ukraine tensions at the border continue, US President Joe Biden said Putin "has to do something" while adding that "my guess is he will move in". "What I'm concerned about is this could get out of hand, very easily get out of hand because of the borders of Ukraine and what Russia may or may not do," the US president said.

As Russia and Ukraine tensions at the border continue, US President Joe Biden said Putin "has to do something" while adding that "my guess is he will move in". "What I'm concerned about is this could get out of hand, very easily get out of hand because of the borders of Ukraine and what Russia may or may not do," the US president said. Also Read | Russia could potentially attack Ukraine from Belarus: US State Department official Biden expressed fears that if Russia attacked Ukraine there could be "short of a full-blown nuclear war". "He's not in a very good position to dominate the world," Biden said referring to Putin. The US president added that a summit to defuse the Ukraine crisis could be a "possibility" while also warning of heavy human casualties in case of a war. Watch: Ukraine on target of Russian nukes? Thousands of Russian troops have massed at the border worrying the US and Ukraine. Putin had dismissed reports that his troops are set to attack Ukraine asserting that soldiers can move around anywhere inside the border. "It's one thing if it's a minor incursion, and then we end up having a fight about what to do and not do," Biden said. However, the White House warned that Russia could launch an attack on Ukraine between mid-January and mid-February as White House press secretary Jen Psaki said an attack on Ukraine "will be met with a swift, severe, and united response from the United States and our allies." Also Read: Russia thins out its embassy in Ukraine, a possible clue to Putin’s next move "If they actually do what they're capable of doing with the force they've massed on the border, it is going to be a disaster for Russia," Biden said, adding that his administration was ready to impose "severe costs" and that there would be "significant damage" to the Russian economy. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Severe costs': My guess is he will move in, says Biden on Putin's Ukraine invasion plan

According to reports, US President Joe Biden has asked his team of meteorologists to look at the Ukraine weather with Russia reportedly planning an invasion.&nbsp;

Reports claim President Putin has pushed back plans to invade Ukraine&nbsp;due to the mild winter condictions in the area.

The United States has been warning for the past two months that Russia is set to launch an attack on Ukraine as President Putin massed thousands of troops at the border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/slew-of-disputes-between-former-cold-war-adversaries-us-and-russia-443661">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Slew of disputes between former Cold War adversaries US and Russia</a>

The Russian president has rejected reports while asserting that his defence forces have the right to move soldiers anywhere inside its territory.

Reports claim Russia was set to launch military action in January however the warm weather has reportedly "delayed" plans.

Watch:&nbsp;Russian troops conduct live-fire exercises near Ukraine

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Amid tensions at the border, talks have been underway between the United States and Russia in Geneva to de-escalate tensions. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the talks were held in an "open, substantive and direct manner".

However, the Russian side added that there were "no clear deadlines" while adding that it won't be "satisfied with the endless dragging out of this process".

Kremlin had earlier sent a security document to the US and NATO listing its concerns. Russia had demanded that&nbsp;the European military alliance should not extend to its eastern border, a claim often reiterated by Putin.

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US deputy secretary of state Wendy Sherman while rejecting Russia's proposals had said it was "non-starters to the United States". Russia has declared Ukraine's NATO membership is a "red line".

Tensions continue to simmer at the border as Russia conducted live-fire exercises with tanks along the Ukrainian border on Tuesday even as the US urged Russia to pull back troops.

(With inputs from Agencies)

According to reports, US President Joe Biden has asked his team of meteorologists to look at the Ukraine weather with Russia reportedly planning an invasion. Reports claim President Putin has pushed back plans to invade Ukraine due to the mild winter condictions in the area.

According to reports, US President Joe Biden has asked his team of meteorologists to look at the Ukraine weather with Russia reportedly planning an invasion. Reports claim President Putin has pushed back plans to invade Ukraine due to the mild winter condictions in the area. The United States has been warning for the past two months that Russia is set to launch an attack on Ukraine as President Putin massed thousands of troops at the border. Also Read in Pics: Slew of disputes between former Cold War adversaries US and Russia The Russian president has rejected reports while asserting that his defence forces have the right to move soldiers anywhere inside its territory. Reports claim Russia was set to launch military action in January however the warm weather has reportedly "delayed" plans. Watch: Russian troops conduct live-fire exercises near Ukraine Amid tensions at the border, talks have been underway between the United States and Russia in Geneva to de-escalate tensions. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the talks were held in an "open, substantive and direct manner". However, the Russian side added that there were "no clear deadlines" while adding that it won't be "satisfied with the endless dragging out of this process". Kremlin had earlier sent a security document to the US and NATO listing its concerns. Russia had demanded that the European military alliance should not extend to its eastern border, a claim often reiterated by Putin. Also Read in Pics: Rebel-held regions of eastern Ukraine are growing closer to Russia US deputy secretary of state Wendy Sherman while rejecting Russia's proposals had said it was "non-starters to the United States". Russia has declared Ukraine's NATO membership is a "red line". Tensions continue to simmer at the border as Russia conducted live-fire exercises with tanks along the Ukrainian border on Tuesday even as the US urged Russia to pull back troops. (With inputs from Agencies)

Biden enlists meteorologists to predict Russia's Ukraine invasion plan: Report

Amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, it has been reported that more than 10,000 Russian troops have been returning to their permanent bases.&nbsp;

Interfax news agency stated&nbsp;on Saturday (December 25), citing the Russian military that the troops are returning after month-long drills near the Ukraine border.&nbsp;

The reported withdrawal of troops comes amid speculations by the West that Moscow has been plotting to invade Ukraine.&nbsp;

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"A stage of combat coordination of divisions, combat crews, squads at motorised units...has been completed," Interfax news quoted the army as saying.

"More than 10,000 military servicemen... will march to their permanent deployment from the territory of the combined arms' area of drills," it added.

It has been understood that drills were held in several regions near Ukraine, including in Crimea, as well as in the southern Russian regions of Rostov and Kuban.

Heavy deployment of troops by Russia to the north, east and south of Ukraine had fuelled fears in Kyiv and Western capitals that Moscow was planning an attack.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Russia has repeatedly declined the reports as it says that it can deploy its troops on its territory as it sees fit.&nbsp;

If reports are to be believed, an estimated number of Russian troops recently moved closer to Ukraine vary from 60,000 to 90,000.&nbsp;

Although, one US intelligence document indicated that the number could be ramped up as high as 175,000.&nbsp;

WATCH | French warship visits Ukrainian port amid escalating tensions with Russia

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Recently, the United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg to discuss concerns about Russia's military build-up on the borders of Ukraine.

"They discussed NATO's dual-track approach to Russia, noting the alliance remains ready for meaningful dialogue with Russia, while standing united to defend and protect allies," the US State Department said.

Amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, it has been reported that more than 10,000 Russian troops have been returning to their permanent bases. Interfax news agency stated on Saturday (December 25), citing the Russian military that the troops are returning after month-long drills near the Ukraine border.

Amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, it has been reported that more than 10,000 Russian troops have been returning to their permanent bases. Interfax news agency stated on Saturday (December 25), citing the Russian military that the troops are returning after month-long drills near the Ukraine border. The reported withdrawal of troops comes amid speculations by the West that Moscow has been plotting to invade Ukraine. ALSO READ | Vladimir Putin says Soviet Santa is 'real force' behind his rapid rise "A stage of combat coordination of divisions, combat crews, squads at motorised units...has been completed," Interfax news quoted the army as saying. "More than 10,000 military servicemen... will march to their permanent deployment from the territory of the combined arms' area of drills," it added. It has been understood that drills were held in several regions near Ukraine, including in Crimea, as well as in the southern Russian regions of Rostov and Kuban. Heavy deployment of troops by Russia to the north, east and south of Ukraine had fuelled fears in Kyiv and Western capitals that Moscow was planning an attack. ALSO READ | Russia blocks website of protest monitoring group for allegedly promoting 'terrorism and extremism' Meanwhile, Russia has repeatedly declined the reports as it says that it can deploy its troops on its territory as it sees fit. If reports are to be believed, an estimated number of Russian troops recently moved closer to Ukraine vary from 60,000 to 90,000. Although, one US intelligence document indicated that the number could be ramped up as high as 175,000. WATCH | French warship visits Ukrainian port amid escalating tensions with Russia × Recently, the United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg to discuss concerns about Russia's military build-up on the borders of Ukraine. "They discussed NATO's dual-track approach to Russia, noting the alliance remains ready for meaningful dialogue with Russia, while standing united to defend and protect allies," the US State Department said.

Thousands of Russian troops returning to bases after drills near Ukraine: Report

Ukraine's military conducted combat drills with US weapons in the eastern region.

The Ukraine army used Javelin anti-tank missiles in the area dominated by separatists. The military exercises come even as security officials said over 100,000 Russian troops were close to Ukraine's border.

<a href="Also Read in Pics: Rebel-held regions of eastern Ukraine are growing closer to Russia">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Rebel-held regions of eastern Ukraine are growing closer to Russia</a>

Amid rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine, reports claim of upcoming cyber warfare. The United States and the United Kingdom have reportedly sent cyber warfare teams to Ukraine in the wake of a feared cyber attack by Russia.

Watch:&nbsp;'Will respond to aggression,' Putin blames West for escalating tensions

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A report by the New York Times claims officials in the US and Britain feel Russian President Vladimir Putin may attempt to launch a cyberattack targeting Ukraine's electrical grid, banking system and other critical infrastructure.

President Joe Biden had assured Ukraine of US support in case it is attacked by Russia. The US president has threatened massive sanctions against Russia it attacks Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?</a>

Reports say American officials have been considering tough export control measures against Russia aimed at disrupting the Russian economy.

Meanwhile, Germany called for talks with Russia in the "Normandy Format" involving France, Russia, Germany, Ukraine including NATO-Russia Council(NRC) in order to de-escalate tensions at the border with Ukraine.

Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said security talks with the US will take place next year after Putin's regime submitted a draft document of security guarantees to the Biden administration and NATO.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine's military conducted combat drills with US weapons in the eastern region. The Ukraine army used Javelin anti-tank missiles in the area dominated by separatists.

Ukraine's military conducted combat drills with US weapons in the eastern region. The Ukraine army used Javelin anti-tank missiles in the area dominated by separatists. The military exercises come even as security officials said over 100,000 Russian troops were close to Ukraine's border. Also Read in Pics: Rebel-held regions of eastern Ukraine are growing closer to Russia Amid rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine, reports claim of upcoming cyber warfare. The United States and the United Kingdom have reportedly sent cyber warfare teams to Ukraine in the wake of a feared cyber attack by Russia. Watch: 'Will respond to aggression,' Putin blames West for escalating tensions A report by the New York Times claims officials in the US and Britain feel Russian President Vladimir Putin may attempt to launch a cyberattack targeting Ukraine's electrical grid, banking system and other critical infrastructure. President Joe Biden had assured Ukraine of US support in case it is attacked by Russia. The US president has threatened massive sanctions against Russia it attacks Ukraine. Also Read in Pics: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? Reports say American officials have been considering tough export control measures against Russia aimed at disrupting the Russian economy. Meanwhile, Germany called for talks with Russia in the "Normandy Format" involving France, Russia, Germany, Ukraine including NATO-Russia Council(NRC) in order to de-escalate tensions at the border with Ukraine. Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said security talks with the US will take place next year after Putin's regime submitted a draft document of security guarantees to the Biden administration and NATO. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine conducts military drill with US-made anti-tank missiles

Despite tensions simmering between the US-led NATO allies and Russia over Ukraine, Moscow believes that their relations with Washington are not at their lowest point yet.

According to&nbsp;Interfax news agency,&nbsp;Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov on Saturday said that Kremlin needed stable and predictable relations with Washington.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Britain’s defence secretary&nbsp;Ben Wallace&nbsp;has said that it is “highly unlikely” that UK or other NATO allies would send troops to the eastern European country if it is invaded by neighbouring Moscow.

The comments come days after UK Prime Minister Borish Johnson 'warned' Russian President Vladimir Putin that they would have to face "signficant consequences" if Russia tries to invade Ukraine,

According to US intelligence, Russia has stationed about 70,000 troops near the border of Ukraine and has begun planning for a possible invasion as soon as early next year.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-invasion-would-be-a-costly-mistake-boris-johnson-warns-putin-436696">Ukraine invasion would be a costly mistake, Boris Johnson warns Putin</a>

Recently in an interview, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Pesko acknowledged a troop build-up near its borders, stating that it was a response to the US military’s presence on the Ukrainian border.

In an interview with the Spectator, Wallace said Ukraine “is not a member of NATO, so it is highly unlikely that anyone is going to send troops into Ukraine to challenge Russia”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-commanders-say-a-russian-invasion-would-overwhelm-them-435579">Ukraine commanders say a Russian invasion would overwhelm them</a>

“We shouldn’t kid people we would. The Ukrainians are aware of that,” he added.

When asked what would be the UK’s response against a possible Russian invasion, Wallace said, “We can all help with capacity building, but to some extent, Ukraine is not in NATO and that is why we are doing the best diplomatically to say to Putin don’t do this.”

On December 13, Boris Johnson told Russian President Vladimir Putin that the UK&nbsp;is committed&nbsp;to Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty, and warned that "any destabilising action would be a strategic mistake that would have significant consequences."

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite tensions simmering between the US-led NATO allies and Russia over Ukraine, Moscow believes that their relations with Washington are not at their lowest point yet.

Despite tensions simmering between the US-led NATO allies and Russia over Ukraine, Moscow believes that their relations with Washington are not at their lowest point yet. According to Interfax news agency, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov on Saturday said that Kremlin needed stable and predictable relations with Washington. Meanwhile, Britain’s defence secretary Ben Wallace has said that it is “highly unlikely” that UK or other NATO allies would send troops to the eastern European country if it is invaded by neighbouring Moscow. The comments come days after UK Prime Minister Borish Johnson 'warned' Russian President Vladimir Putin that they would have to face "signficant consequences" if Russia tries to invade Ukraine, According to US intelligence, Russia has stationed about 70,000 troops near the border of Ukraine and has begun planning for a possible invasion as soon as early next year. Also read | Ukraine invasion would be a costly mistake, Boris Johnson warns Putin Recently in an interview, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Pesko acknowledged a troop build-up near its borders, stating that it was a response to the US military’s presence on the Ukrainian border. In an interview with the Spectator, Wallace said Ukraine “is not a member of NATO, so it is highly unlikely that anyone is going to send troops into Ukraine to challenge Russia”. Also read | Ukraine commanders say a Russian invasion would overwhelm them “We shouldn’t kid people we would. The Ukrainians are aware of that,” he added. When asked what would be the UK’s response against a possible Russian invasion, Wallace said, “We can all help with capacity building, but to some extent, Ukraine is not in NATO and that is why we are doing the best diplomatically to say to Putin don’t do this.” On December 13, Boris Johnson told Russian President Vladimir Putin that the UK is committed to Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty, and warned that "any destabilising action would be a strategic mistake that would have significant consequences." (With inputs from agencies)

Amid Ukraine crisis, Kremlin says tensions between Russia and US not at lowest point yet

Britain's foreign secretary Liz Truss while speaking at the G7 foreign ministers meeting warned that Russia would face "massive consequences in case of an incursion into&nbsp;Ukraine".

Western leaders have sought to put pressure on President Putin after reports claimed Russian troops have&nbsp;been massing troops on Ukraine's border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?</a>

Russia has however said it is free to move its troops within its borders and has no plans to attack Ukraine.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden in a virtual summit this week with President Putin had threatened to impose economic sanctions against Russia if it attacked Ukraine. The US president warned of "devastating" economic consequences on Russia during his summit with&nbsp;Putin.

Watch:&nbsp;'Russia will pay a terrible price if it invades Ukraine'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-russia-will-pay-a-terrible-price-if-it-invades-ukraine-436266/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Russian president has asserted that his country has a "peaceful foreign policy, but has the right to defend its security". Putin said Ukraine's admission into NATO could lead to European forces moving to the eastern border.

Biden said US and NATO are ready to send more troops into the eastern flank while warning that Putin will "pay a terrible price" if the situation went out of control. The US president said his forces will continue to provide "defence capacities" to Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/protests-in-ukraine-as-putin-marks-russias-unity-day-in-crimea-426813">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Protests in Ukraine as Putin marks Russia's Unity Day in Crimea</a>

Amid the escalating pressure, US State Department revealed that diplomats will travel to Ukraine and Russia in order to deescalate tensions.

Reports claim Russia has deployed 100,000 troops on Ukraine's border. The Russian foreign ministry had declared earlier that NATO should do away with plans to induct Georgia and Ukraine into the European military alliance. However, NATO secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg flatly rejected Russia's call.

Stoltenberg said European nations have the right "to decide their own path".&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Britain's foreign secretary Liz Truss while speaking at the G7 foreign ministers meeting warned that Russia would face "massive consequences in case of an incursion into Ukraine".

Britain's foreign secretary Liz Truss while speaking at the G7 foreign ministers meeting warned that Russia would face "massive consequences in case of an incursion into Ukraine". Western leaders have sought to put pressure on President Putin after reports claimed Russian troops have been massing troops on Ukraine's border. Also Read in Pics: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? Russia has however said it is free to move its troops within its borders and has no plans to attack Ukraine. President Joe Biden in a virtual summit this week with President Putin had threatened to impose economic sanctions against Russia if it attacked Ukraine. The US president warned of "devastating" economic consequences on Russia during his summit with Putin. Watch: 'Russia will pay a terrible price if it invades Ukraine' The Russian president has asserted that his country has a "peaceful foreign policy, but has the right to defend its security". Putin said Ukraine's admission into NATO could lead to European forces moving to the eastern border. Biden said US and NATO are ready to send more troops into the eastern flank while warning that Putin will "pay a terrible price" if the situation went out of control. The US president said his forces will continue to provide "defence capacities" to Ukraine. Also Read in Pics: Protests in Ukraine as Putin marks Russia's Unity Day in Crimea Amid the escalating pressure, US State Department revealed that diplomats will travel to Ukraine and Russia in order to deescalate tensions. Reports claim Russia has deployed 100,000 troops on Ukraine's border. The Russian foreign ministry had declared earlier that NATO should do away with plans to induct Georgia and Ukraine into the European military alliance. However, NATO secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg flatly rejected Russia's call. Stoltenberg said European nations have the right "to decide their own path". (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia will face 'massive consequences'  over Ukraine incursion, warns G7

Tensions are escalating near the Ukrainian Border. Russia has threatened retaliation if the West refuses to accept its demands. What is Vladimir Putin's game plan? The Russian President has 4 options to invade Ukraine. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Ukraine Tensions: Putin has 4 options to invade Ukraine

The United States said today that Russia has "prepositioned a group of operatives to conduct a false-flag operation in eastern Ukraine" in a bid to escalate the border crisis.

White House spokesperson Jen Psaki said Russia has operatives who are trained in urban warfare and are using "explosives to carry out acts of sabotage against Russia's own proxy forces".

The United States and Kyiv have warned that Russia is set to launch an invasion in Ukraine with thousands of Russian troops massed at the border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-are-hypersonic-missiles-different-is-it-the-new-wonder-weapon-444335#hypersonics-the-new-frontier-in-missile-technology-444327">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;How are hypersonic missiles different, is it the new 'wonder weapon'?</a>

Psaki declared that Russia is "preparing for an invasion into Ukraine" while "fabricating" a pretext for an invasion.

The White House spokesperson alleged that Russia is carrying out "sabotage activities" by accusing Ukraine of preparing an attack.

"Plans to begin these activities several weeks before a military invasion which could begin between mid-January and mid-February," the White House spokesperson added.

Watch:&nbsp;Attempt at defusing tensions between Russia and Ukraine fails

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-third-attempt-at-defusing-tensions-between-russia-and-ukraine-fails-444835/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Russia however denied the US statements even as Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said intelligence was "very credible".

"They often hybridize their personnel to such a degree that the lines are not necessarily really clear," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/slew-of-disputes-between-former-cold-war-adversaries-us-and-russia-443661">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Slew of disputes between former Cold War adversaries US and Russia</a>

The latest revelations come even as reports said Ukraine was hit by a major cyberattack as the US said Russia had launched a disinformation campaign with "Ukrainian provocations in state and social media to justify a Russian intervention and sow divisions in Ukraine."&nbsp;

"We saw this playbook in 2014. They are preparing this playbook again," US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said referring to Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

The United States said today that Russia has "prepositioned a group of operatives to conduct a false-flag operation in eastern Ukraine" in a bid to escalate the border crisis.

The United States said today that Russia has "prepositioned a group of operatives to conduct a false-flag operation in eastern Ukraine" in a bid to escalate the border crisis. White House spokesperson Jen Psaki said Russia has operatives who are trained in urban warfare and are using "explosives to carry out acts of sabotage against Russia's own proxy forces". The United States and Kyiv have warned that Russia is set to launch an invasion in Ukraine with thousands of Russian troops massed at the border. Also Read in Pics: How are hypersonic missiles different, is it the new 'wonder weapon'? Psaki declared that Russia is "preparing for an invasion into Ukraine" while "fabricating" a pretext for an invasion. The White House spokesperson alleged that Russia is carrying out "sabotage activities" by accusing Ukraine of preparing an attack. "Plans to begin these activities several weeks before a military invasion which could begin between mid-January and mid-February," the White House spokesperson added. Watch: Attempt at defusing tensions between Russia and Ukraine fails Russia however denied the US statements even as Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said intelligence was "very credible". "They often hybridize their personnel to such a degree that the lines are not necessarily really clear," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said. Also Read in Pics: Slew of disputes between former Cold War adversaries US and Russia The latest revelations come even as reports said Ukraine was hit by a major cyberattack as the US said Russia had launched a disinformation campaign with "Ukrainian provocations in state and social media to justify a Russian intervention and sow divisions in Ukraine." "We saw this playbook in 2014. They are preparing this playbook again," US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said referring to Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia conducting false-flag operation in eastern Ukraine: US

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