Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that he is mulling the idea of recognising independence of Ukraine's two breakaway regions. He said that leaders of these territories in eastern Ukraine have appealed him to do so.

"Our goal is to listen to our colleagues and determine our next steps in this direction, bearing in mind both the appeals of the leaders of the DNR (Donetsk People's Republic) and LNR (Lugansk People's Republic) to recognise their independence," Putin said while opening a televised security council meeting.&nbsp;

He said that tensions between Russia and the West over Ukraine posed a threat to Moscow.

"The use of Ukraine as an instrument of confrontation with our country poses a serious, very big threat to us," Putin said adding that Moscow's priority was "not confrontation, but security".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-crisis-kyiv-denies-its-saboteurs-crossed-into-moscow-455109">Ukraine-Russia crisis: Kyiv denies its 'saboteurs' crossed into Moscow</a>

The Russian parliament has also asked Putin to recognise the pro-Moscow separatist territories, which declared themselves independent of Kyiv's rule after Ukraine's 2014 pro-EU revolution.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-be-killed-or-sent-to-camps-us-claims-russia-plans-to-target-dissidents-in-ukraine-455031">'To be killed or sent to camps': US claims Russia plans to target dissidents in Ukraine</a>

Calls for recognition from the rebels came as the Ukraine crisis escalated sharply on Monday, with fears mounting that Russia is paving the way for an all-out invasion of its western neighbour.

"I ask you to recognise the sovereignty and independence of the Lugansk People's Republic," separatist Leonid Pasechnik said in a video aired on Russian state television.&nbsp;

Denis Pushilin, the rebel head of the Donetsk People's Republic, made a similar appeal.&nbsp;

"On behalf of all the people of the Donetsk People's Republic, we ask you to recognise the Donetsk People's Republic as an independent, democratic legal and social state," Pushilin said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that he is mulling the idea of recognising independence of Ukraine's two breakaway regions. He said that leaders of these territories in eastern Ukraine have appealed him to do so.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that he is mulling the idea of recognising independence of Ukraine's two breakaway regions. He said that leaders of these territories in eastern Ukraine have appealed him to do so. "Our goal is to listen to our colleagues and determine our next steps in this direction, bearing in mind both the appeals of the leaders of the DNR (Donetsk People's Republic) and LNR (Lugansk People's Republic) to recognise their independence," Putin said while opening a televised security council meeting. He said that tensions between Russia and the West over Ukraine posed a threat to Moscow. "The use of Ukraine as an instrument of confrontation with our country poses a serious, very big threat to us," Putin said adding that Moscow's priority was "not confrontation, but security". Also Read | Ukraine-Russia crisis: Kyiv denies its 'saboteurs' crossed into Moscow The Russian parliament has also asked Putin to recognise the pro-Moscow separatist territories, which declared themselves independent of Kyiv's rule after Ukraine's 2014 pro-EU revolution. Also Read | 'To be killed or sent to camps': US claims Russia plans to target dissidents in Ukraine Calls for recognition from the rebels came as the Ukraine crisis escalated sharply on Monday, with fears mounting that Russia is paving the way for an all-out invasion of its western neighbour. "I ask you to recognise the sovereignty and independence of the Lugansk People's Republic," separatist Leonid Pasechnik said in a video aired on Russian state television. Denis Pushilin, the rebel head of the Donetsk People's Republic, made a similar appeal. "On behalf of all the people of the Donetsk People's Republic, we ask you to recognise the Donetsk People's Republic as an independent, democratic legal and social state," Pushilin said. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin may consider recognising independence of Ukraine's breakaway regions

The United States has warned the United Nations it has information that Russia has lists of Ukrainians to be killed or sent to camps in the event of an invasion.

US warns: Russia readying list of Ukrainian targets

Family members of Indian diplomats in Ukraine have been asked to return back to India even as the situation remains precarious. The development shows that New Delhi is worried about the situation on the ground.

While Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for an immediate ceasefire, concerns rise with the deteriorating situation in the Eastern part of the country bordering Russia.

India has around 20,000 of its nationals in the country, most of them students doing medical education. The Indian mission in the capital Kyiv has issued a number of advisories for nationals, the latest one just on Sunday.

"In view of the continued high level of tensions and uncertainties with respect of the situation in Ukraine", Sunday advisory said, "all Indian nationals whose stay is not deemed essential and all Indian students, are advised to leave Ukraine temporarily".

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-advice-for-nationals-in-ukraine-students-non-essential-workers-advised-to-leave-454822/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

New Delhi has number of times said "well-being" of its national is a priority. Last week speaking at United Nations Security Council meeting on the issue Indian envoy to United Nations T.S. Tirumurti called for "immediate de-escalation of tensions" that takes into "account the legitimate security interests of all countries and aimed towards securing long-term peace and stability in the region and beyond.".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-indications-russia-on-brink-of-invading-ukraine-says-blinken-454871" hreflang="en">All indications Russia 'on brink' of invading Ukraine, says Blinken</a>

At the meeting, India backed the implementation of the Minsk pact and talks under the Normandy format. The Indian envoy said, "We believe that the “Minsk Agreements”, provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement of the situation in Eastern Ukraine" urging all "parties to continue to engage through all possible diplomatic channels and keep working towards the full implementation of the “Minsk Agreements”."

Minsk pact which includes Russia, Ukraine, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe OSCE is a 2014/2015 agreement that calls for a ceasefire in Eastern Ukraine regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, and&nbsp;others among other things.

The Normandy format of talks includes Germany, France, and members of the Minsk pact and basically focuses on the pact's implementation. 
&nbsp;

Family members of Indian diplomats in Ukraine have been asked to return back to India even as the situation remains precarious. The development shows that New Delhi is worried about the situation on the ground.

Family members of Indian diplomats in Ukraine have been asked to return back to India even as the situation remains precarious. The development shows that New Delhi is worried about the situation on the ground. While Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for an immediate ceasefire, concerns rise with the deteriorating situation in the Eastern part of the country bordering Russia. India has around 20,000 of its nationals in the country, most of them students doing medical education. The Indian mission in the capital Kyiv has issued a number of advisories for nationals, the latest one just on Sunday. "In view of the continued high level of tensions and uncertainties with respect of the situation in Ukraine", Sunday advisory said, "all Indian nationals whose stay is not deemed essential and all Indian students, are advised to leave Ukraine temporarily". New Delhi has number of times said "well-being" of its national is a priority. Last week speaking at United Nations Security Council meeting on the issue Indian envoy to United Nations T.S. Tirumurti called for "immediate de-escalation of tensions" that takes into "account the legitimate security interests of all countries and aimed towards securing long-term peace and stability in the region and beyond.". Also read | All indications Russia 'on brink' of invading Ukraine, says Blinken At the meeting, India backed the implementation of the Minsk pact and talks under the Normandy format. The Indian envoy said, "We believe that the “Minsk Agreements”, provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement of the situation in Eastern Ukraine" urging all "parties to continue to engage through all possible diplomatic channels and keep working towards the full implementation of the “Minsk Agreements”." Minsk pact which includes Russia, Ukraine, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe OSCE is a 2014/2015 agreement that calls for a ceasefire in Eastern Ukraine regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, and others among other things. The Normandy format of talks includes Germany, France, and members of the Minsk pact and basically focuses on the pact's implementation.

Ukraine crisis: Family members of Indian diplomats asked to return to India

On the edge of Europe and thousands of miles from the United States, the relevance of Ukraine extends far beyond its borders.

First and foremost, a Russian invasion would upend the lives of 44 million Ukrainians. But its fate has huge implications for the rest of Europe, the health of the global economy and America’s place in the world.

It would increase fears over the security of other former Soviet countries in Eastern Europe. It would heighten fears over the strength of the post-1989 international order and America’s ability to influence it. And it would risk raising fuel prices across the world.

Here’s how Ukraine ended up at the centre of a global crisis.

Why do Russia, the U.S. and Europe care so much about Ukraine?

Both Russia and the West see Ukraine as a potential buffer against each other.

Russia considers Ukraine within its natural sphere of influence. Most of it was for centuries part of the Russian Empire, many Ukrainians are native Russian speakers and the country was part of the Soviet Union until winning independence in 1991.

Russia was unnerved when an uprising in 2014 replaced Ukraine’s Russia-friendly president with an unequivocally Western-facing government.

Most former Soviet republics and allies in Europe had already joined the European Union or NATO. Ukraine’s lurch away from Russian influence felt like the final death knell for Russian power in Eastern Europe.

To Europe and the United States, Ukraine matters in part because they see it as a bellwether for their own influence, and for Russian intentions in the rest of Europe. Ukraine is not part of the European Union or NATO. But it receives considerable financial and military support from Europe and the United States. If Russia invades, it suggests that Moscow might feel empowered to raise tensions with other former Soviet republics that are now members of the Western alliance, like Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

Any Russian incursion would also further threaten U.S. dominance over world affairs. By winning the Cold War, the United States established great influence over the international order, but that influence has waned in the past decade, and a Russian invasion might accelerate that process. By reinvigorating NATO, the United States may hope to slow that process down, or even reverse it.

Ukraine was often in the news during the Trump administration. Why?

Ukraine was central to the impeachment of former President Donald Trump in 2020.

Several months before impeachment proceedings, Trump had blocked $391 million in military aid to Ukraine. Soon after, Trump asked the newly elected Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy,&nbsp;to investigate discredited corruption allegations involving Joe Biden, then the likeliest Democratic challenger to Trump.

As a result, Trump was accused of illegally asking a foreign entity — Ukraine — to intervene in the U.S. political system, and of changing state policy to help him personally. The impeachment vote narrowly failed.

Ukraine was also at the heart of a scandal involving Trump’s former campaign manager, Paul Manafort. In 2018, Manafort was jailed for concealing more than $30 million worth of consultancy fees he received from Ukrainian oligarchs and government officials to promote the political fortunes of Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian Ukrainian president ousted in the 2014 uprising. Manafort advised Yanukovych between 2006 and 2014, before the latter fled to Russia, and before Manafort began working for Trump.

Didn’t Russia already invade parts of Ukraine?

Yes. After the uprising in 2014, Russian troops wearing unmarked uniforms invaded Crimea, a strategically important peninsula on the Black Sea. In a referendum condemned as illegal by most of the world, the region then voted by an overwhelming majority to join Russia.

Later in 2014, pro-Russian separatists backed by Russian troops and military hardware captured parts of eastern Ukraine, setting up two rebel republics — in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions — that remain unrecognized by any other state.

Fighting continues today between the Ukrainian state and the separatists. To many Ukrainians, the threat of a broader Russian intervention in Ukraine is therefore merely the latest episode of an unfinished eight-year war. And that war is likely to continue, whether Russia invades in the coming days or not.

What do Ukrainians want?

The threat of another Russian invasion has consolidated a growing sense of national pride and unity among Ukrainians, even among those who grew up speaking Russian.

As recently as 2001, opinion polls suggested that roughly half of Ukrainians supported the country’s departure from the Soviet Union. Today, more than 80% support Ukraine’s independence, and more than half back joining NATO.

Though anxiety courses through the country, life continues more or less as normal in most of it. Both civilians and government leaders say that they remain calm amid foreign reports of an imminent invasion, and some even say they doubt that Russia will actually invade. But at the same time, many civilians have increasingly joined volunteer defense units and signed up for first-aid courses.

How might Ukraine and its supporters stop another Russian invasion?

Ukraine could promise to abandon any effort to join NATO, or carry out a never-enforced pair of peace agreements signed in 2014 and 2015 that were considered favorable to Russia.

Under the agreements, known as the Minsk Accords, the two separatist territories would rejoin Ukraine — but only in a federal system that could give the territories a veto over Ukrainian foreign policy.

But the Ukrainian government’s hands are tied, at least in the short term. Abandoning NATO aspirations would contravene the Ukrainian Constitution. And a poll in December found that three-quarters of Ukrainians either entirely reject carrying out the Minsk Accords, or want them amended.

The United States and Europe have more cards up their sleeve. Washington could cut off Russia’s largest financial institutions from the global financial system, crippling the Russian economy. Germany could halt the implementation of Nord Stream 2, a major new pipeline transporting Russian gas to Europe. The United Kingdom may place restrictions on Russian oligarchs with property and assets in Britain.

And then there is the diplomatic path: The Kremlin insists this crisis is not just about Ukraine but also about the NATO military presence in Eastern Europe, which President Vladimir Putin of Russia describes as an existential threat to Russia’s security.

He wants NATO to pull back from the region and guarantee that neither Ukraine nor any other countries there will ever join the alliance. President Joe Biden insists that the United States is ready to keep talking, but that it will remain committed to the idea that every country should be free to choose its own alliances.

Why is Ukraine so vulnerable?

Though given money and arms by the West, Ukraine is not actually a NATO member and so cannot count on the direct U.S. military support and of U.S. allies. Its military, though the recipient of hundreds of millions of dollars in Western aid in recent years, is still no match for Russia’s.

It is also surrounded by Russian allies and proxies — and by Russia itself. Russian troops are massed not only along Ukraine’s eastern border with Russia but also along the Belarusian border, just over 50 miles north of Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital. Russian troops are also stationed in Transnistria, a small and unrecognized breakaway region from Moldova, to Ukraine’s west. If Russian troops invaded from some or all of these locations, Ukraine’s army might be stretched too thin to mount an effective defense.

Would-be allies like Germany may also be wary of enacting economic measures to deter Russia. Europe is highly dependent on Russian fuel, and Russia is a major trading partner of Germany.

What are the possible economic effects of an invasion?

Some of the world’s main grain supplies are routed through the Black Sea, which borders both Russia and Ukraine, two major wheat producers. Military action could disrupt both grain production and distribution, raising food costs for consumers across the world.

Russia supplies about one-third of Europe’s gas, much of which is currently shipped through Ukraine. Any disruption at either end of that supply chain would force European countries to look elsewhere for fuel, most likely raising world oil prices.

Is an invasion certain?

Not necessarily.

The United States and other countries say an invasion is possible within days, and have evacuated staff from the Ukrainian capital in preparation. But Ukraine and the United States could still take measures to placate Russia. And Russia may still avoid an invasion.

The economic damage of Western sanctions, and the potential death toll of an extended war in Ukraine, might be too great a cost for Moscow to stomach.

On the edge of Europe and thousands of miles from the United States, the relevance of Ukraine extends far beyond its borders. First and foremost, a Russian invasion would upend the lives of 44 million Ukrainians.

On the edge of Europe and thousands of miles from the United States, the relevance of Ukraine extends far beyond its borders. First and foremost, a Russian invasion would upend the lives of 44 million Ukrainians. But its fate has huge implications for the rest of Europe, the health of the global economy and America’s place in the world. It would increase fears over the security of other former Soviet countries in Eastern Europe. It would heighten fears over the strength of the post-1989 international order and America’s ability to influence it. And it would risk raising fuel prices across the world. Here’s how Ukraine ended up at the centre of a global crisis. Why do Russia, the U.S. and Europe care so much about Ukraine? Both Russia and the West see Ukraine as a potential buffer against each other. Russia considers Ukraine within its natural sphere of influence. Most of it was for centuries part of the Russian Empire, many Ukrainians are native Russian speakers and the country was part of the Soviet Union until winning independence in 1991. Russia was unnerved when an uprising in 2014 replaced Ukraine’s Russia-friendly president with an unequivocally Western-facing government. Most former Soviet republics and allies in Europe had already joined the European Union or NATO. Ukraine’s lurch away from Russian influence felt like the final death knell for Russian power in Eastern Europe. To Europe and the United States, Ukraine matters in part because they see it as a bellwether for their own influence, and for Russian intentions in the rest of Europe. Ukraine is not part of the European Union or NATO. But it receives considerable financial and military support from Europe and the United States. If Russia invades, it suggests that Moscow might feel empowered to raise tensions with other former Soviet republics that are now members of the Western alliance, like Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Any Russian incursion would also further threaten U.S. dominance over world affairs. By winning the Cold War, the United States established great influence over the international order, but that influence has waned in the past decade, and a Russian invasion might accelerate that process. By reinvigorating NATO, the United States may hope to slow that process down, or even reverse it. Ukraine was often in the news during the Trump administration. Why? Ukraine was central to the impeachment of former President Donald Trump in 2020. Several months before impeachment proceedings, Trump had blocked $391 million in military aid to Ukraine. Soon after, Trump asked the newly elected Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to investigate discredited corruption allegations involving Joe Biden, then the likeliest Democratic challenger to Trump. As a result, Trump was accused of illegally asking a foreign entity — Ukraine — to intervene in the U.S. political system, and of changing state policy to help him personally. The impeachment vote narrowly failed. Ukraine was also at the heart of a scandal involving Trump’s former campaign manager, Paul Manafort. In 2018, Manafort was jailed for concealing more than $30 million worth of consultancy fees he received from Ukrainian oligarchs and government officials to promote the political fortunes of Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian Ukrainian president ousted in the 2014 uprising. Manafort advised Yanukovych between 2006 and 2014, before the latter fled to Russia, and before Manafort began working for Trump. Didn’t Russia already invade parts of Ukraine? Yes. After the uprising in 2014, Russian troops wearing unmarked uniforms invaded Crimea, a strategically important peninsula on the Black Sea. In a referendum condemned as illegal by most of the world, the region then voted by an overwhelming majority to join Russia. Later in 2014, pro-Russian separatists backed by Russian troops and military hardware captured parts of eastern Ukraine, setting up two rebel republics — in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions — that remain unrecognized by any other state. Fighting continues today between the Ukrainian state and the separatists. To many Ukrainians, the threat of a broader Russian intervention in Ukraine is therefore merely the latest episode of an unfinished eight-year war. And that war is likely to continue, whether Russia invades in the coming days or not. What do Ukrainians want? The threat of another Russian invasion has consolidated a growing sense of national pride and unity among Ukrainians, even among those who grew up speaking Russian. As recently as 2001, opinion polls suggested that roughly half of Ukrainians supported the country’s departure from the Soviet Union. Today, more than 80% support Ukraine’s independence, and more than half back joining NATO. Though anxiety courses through the country, life continues more or less as normal in most of it. Both civilians and government leaders say that they remain calm amid foreign reports of an imminent invasion, and some even say they doubt that Russia will actually invade. But at the same time, many civilians have increasingly joined volunteer defense units and signed up for first-aid courses. How might Ukraine and its supporters stop another Russian invasion? Ukraine could promise to abandon any effort to join NATO, or carry out a never-enforced pair of peace agreements signed in 2014 and 2015 that were considered favorable to Russia. Under the agreements, known as the Minsk Accords, the two separatist territories would rejoin Ukraine — but only in a federal system that could give the territories a veto over Ukrainian foreign policy. But the Ukrainian government’s hands are tied, at least in the short term. Abandoning NATO aspirations would contravene the Ukrainian Constitution. And a poll in December found that three-quarters of Ukrainians either entirely reject carrying out the Minsk Accords, or want them amended. The United States and Europe have more cards up their sleeve. Washington could cut off Russia’s largest financial institutions from the global financial system, crippling the Russian economy. Germany could halt the implementation of Nord Stream 2, a major new pipeline transporting Russian gas to Europe. The United Kingdom may place restrictions on Russian oligarchs with property and assets in Britain. And then there is the diplomatic path: The Kremlin insists this crisis is not just about Ukraine but also about the NATO military presence in Eastern Europe, which President Vladimir Putin of Russia describes as an existential threat to Russia’s security. He wants NATO to pull back from the region and guarantee that neither Ukraine nor any other countries there will ever join the alliance. President Joe Biden insists that the United States is ready to keep talking, but that it will remain committed to the idea that every country should be free to choose its own alliances. Why is Ukraine so vulnerable? Though given money and arms by the West, Ukraine is not actually a NATO member and so cannot count on the direct U.S. military support and of U.S. allies. Its military, though the recipient of hundreds of millions of dollars in Western aid in recent years, is still no match for Russia’s. It is also surrounded by Russian allies and proxies — and by Russia itself. Russian troops are massed not only along Ukraine’s eastern border with Russia but also along the Belarusian border, just over 50 miles north of Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital. Russian troops are also stationed in Transnistria, a small and unrecognized breakaway region from Moldova, to Ukraine’s west. If Russian troops invaded from some or all of these locations, Ukraine’s army might be stretched too thin to mount an effective defense. Would-be allies like Germany may also be wary of enacting economic measures to deter Russia. Europe is highly dependent on Russian fuel, and Russia is a major trading partner of Germany. What are the possible economic effects of an invasion? Some of the world’s main grain supplies are routed through the Black Sea, which borders both Russia and Ukraine, two major wheat producers. Military action could disrupt both grain production and distribution, raising food costs for consumers across the world. Russia supplies about one-third of Europe’s gas, much of which is currently shipped through Ukraine. Any disruption at either end of that supply chain would force European countries to look elsewhere for fuel, most likely raising world oil prices. Is an invasion certain? Not necessarily. The United States and other countries say an invasion is possible within days, and have evacuated staff from the Ukrainian capital in preparation. But Ukraine and the United States could still take measures to placate Russia. And Russia may still avoid an invasion. The economic damage of Western sanctions, and the potential death toll of an extended war in Ukraine, might be too great a cost for Moscow to stomach.

Why Ukraine matters: What to know about the crisis with Russia

Has Russian begun preparing for an invasion of Ukraine? East Ukraine has witnessed its most intense shelling since 2015. Pro-Russian separatists have announced a sudden evacuation in Donbas. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ukraine Crisis: Is Moscow manufacturing a pretext for an invasion?

Russia welcomed India’s “balanced, principled and independent approach” at the United Nations Security Council meeting even as Moscow and Washington squared off while discussing the Ukraine issue.

The reaction came a day after India at the USNC said that "quiet and constructive diplomacy" is the need of the hour and that any step that could escalate the tension should be avoided.

The issue can only be resolved through diplomatic dialogue, India said at the UN on Thursday.

“We welcome #India's balanced, principled and independent approach,” the Russian embassy tweeted while sharing a video clip from the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in New York.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We welcome <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>’s balanced, principled and independent approach 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/nnlSLQaVlN">https://t.co/nnlSLQaVlN</a>
— Russia in India 🇷🇺 (@RusEmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RusEmbIndia/status/1494525904667566082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador T S Tirumurti backed the implementation of the Minsk Agreements and talks under the Normandy Format, which involves Germany, Russia, Ukraine and France.

“We believe that the Minsk Agreements provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement of the situation in eastern Ukraine. All parties should continue to engage through all possible diplomatic channels and keep working towards the full implementation of the agreements,” he said.

The agreements provide a basis for a “negotiated and peaceful settlement” of the situation in Eastern Ukraine, he said.

He also noted that there were more than 20,000 Indians living and studying in various parts of Ukraine, adding that the India government places the “wellbeing” of its citizens at the highest priority.

The UNSC meeting was convened in the backdrop of high tensions between Russia and the West over border conflict with Ukraine.

&nbsp;In the meeting, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Russia is planning to manufacture “a pretext” to attack Ukraine.

“This could be a violent event that Russia will blame on Ukraine, or an outrageous accusation that Russia will level against the Ukrainian Government,” he said.

Moscow, however, dismissed the accusation made by the West.

Russia welcomed India’s “balanced, principled and independent approach” at the United Nations Security Council meeting even as Moscow and Washington squared off while discussing the Ukraine issue.

Russia welcomed India’s “balanced, principled and independent approach” at the United Nations Security Council meeting even as Moscow and Washington squared off while discussing the Ukraine issue. The reaction came a day after India at the USNC said that "quiet and constructive diplomacy" is the need of the hour and that any step that could escalate the tension should be avoided. The issue can only be resolved through diplomatic dialogue, India said at the UN on Thursday. “We welcome #India's balanced, principled and independent approach,” the Russian embassy tweeted while sharing a video clip from the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in New York. We welcome #India’s balanced, principled and independent approach 🙏 https://t.co/nnlSLQaVlN — Russia in India 🇷🇺 (@RusEmbIndia) February 18, 2022 × India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador T S Tirumurti backed the implementation of the Minsk Agreements and talks under the Normandy Format, which involves Germany, Russia, Ukraine and France. “We believe that the Minsk Agreements provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement of the situation in eastern Ukraine. All parties should continue to engage through all possible diplomatic channels and keep working towards the full implementation of the agreements,” he said. The agreements provide a basis for a “negotiated and peaceful settlement” of the situation in Eastern Ukraine, he said. He also noted that there were more than 20,000 Indians living and studying in various parts of Ukraine, adding that the India government places the “wellbeing” of its citizens at the highest priority. The UNSC meeting was convened in the backdrop of high tensions between Russia and the West over border conflict with Ukraine. In the meeting, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Russia is planning to manufacture “a pretext” to attack Ukraine. “This could be a violent event that Russia will blame on Ukraine, or an outrageous accusation that Russia will level against the Ukrainian Government,” he said. Moscow, however, dismissed the accusation made by the West.

Ukraine crisis: Russia ‘welcomes’ India’s ‘principled and independent’ approach at UN

Ulrike Franke is a self-confessed German millennial, a defense analyst who worries about her generation’s allergy to the military, especially as it moves into positions of power.

“After 30 years of peace,” she wrote last year in a well-read essay, “German millennials have a hard time adjusting to the world we are living in now. We struggle to think in terms of interests, we struggle with the concept of geopolitical power, and we struggle with military power being an element of geopolitical power.”

Russia’s massive and open military threat to Ukraine, she and others say, is now shaking a sense of complacency among young and old Europeans alike who have never known war, hot or cold. For some, at least, the moment is an awakening as the threat of war grows real.

But just how far Europe is prepared to go in shifting from a world where peace and security were taken for granted remains to be seen. For decades Europeans have paid relatively little in money, lives or resources for their defense — and paid even less attention, sheltering under a U.S. nuclear umbrella left over from the Cold War.

That debate had begun to shift in recent years, even before Russia’s menacing of Ukraine, with talk of a more robust and independent European strategic and defense posture. But the crisis has done as much to expose European weakness on security issues as it has to fortify its sense of unity.

Franke, 34, a senior fellow with the European Council on Foreign Relations, is not convinced that anything short of a major Russian invasion of Ukraine will very much alter public opinion.

“We’re having in Europe and Germany a status quo problem,” she said in an interview. “We’re very comfortable with this version of European security, and most people don’t realize that to defend this status quo, we need to act.”

The elite feel the cold wind from Russia, she said, but “on the level of public opinion, people want to be left alone and for nothing to touch them.”

Franke, who is an expert in drone warfare, may be too pessimistic, some believe.

Daniela Schwarzer, who ran the German Council on Foreign Relations and now manages Europe and Eurasia for the Open Society Foundations, thinks that “the image of Russia has changed a lot.”

“Even in Germany there is a sober realism that our relations with Russia and our energy policy have to be dealt with in a much more strategic way than generally acknowledged in the past,” she said.

But even after Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, Germany and Europe did very little to diminish their energy dependency on Russia or to prepare for Moscow weaponizing energy supplies.

With the new Ukraine crisis, that is quickly changing, she said.

Europeans bordering Russia have always warned about Moscow, but other Europeans farther away now see the point. “There is now the perception that conflict on our continent is possible,” Schwarzer said.

In 2008, when Russian troops went into Georgia, or annexed Crimea, or inserted themselves into the recent conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, there was little lasting change in perception of Russia.

“But this conflict would have a different dimension, since it so directly opposes the West and Russia, and is seen as proof that the current European security order no longer provides security,” she said.

Peter Ricketts, a former British ambassador to France now in the House of Lords, agrees. This conflict has put “war back into focus again in the trans-Atlantic world,” he said.

For the younger generation, concerned, like the German Greens, with the environment and focused on human rights and gender and racial equality, “this is 19th-century policy erupting and crashing into their 21st-century concerns,” he said.

In the larger sense, Ricketts said, the conflict reminds Europeans of the importance of NATO and of U.S. leadership in the trans-Atlantic alliance. “Faith in talking to Russia rather than deterring will be severely damaged by this,” he said.

A major Russian military action would bring about more military spending, push NATO to increase troop deployments closer to Russia, “deepen the chasm between Russia and the West and push Russia more into the hands of China and the renminbi zone, with Russia a small partner,” Ricketts said.

Already, NATO countries, including Britain, France, Germany and the United States, have moved troops, aircraft and ships to shore up member states from Poland and the Baltics to Romania, with France offering a more permanent deployment in Romania. Those deployments may last for some time.

There are “some long-term consequences, some long-term deterioration of the security environment in Europe from this significant Russian military buildup, the threatening rhetoric,” Jens Stoltenberg, NATO’s secretary-general, said as defense ministers gathered in Brussels. “I regret to say that this is the new normal in Europe.”

There will also be new debate about the push by Emmanuel Macron, the French president, for European strategic autonomy and resilience. A European security crisis where the European Union has little to add beyond the threat of sanctions troubles many. But there is no easy or quick answer, suggested Robin Niblett, director of Chatham House.

“This really does bring the security element to the fore, and it’s not what the EU is best suited to manage,” he said. “It will mean treating NATO more seriously as the anchor of European security and not overplaying EU strategic autonomy.”

European security still comes only with U.S. leadership, he said, adding, “Maybe this crisis is telling that to Europeans, some of whom don’t like it.”

But undercutting any new faith in U.S. leadership is a wide European concern that President Joe Biden is likely to be a one-term president, weakened by November’s midterm elections, and that former President Donald Trump or another Republican in his disruptive nationalist mode will win in 2024.

“We don’t know what’s coming after Biden,” said Claudia Major of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs. “America is back for a moment, but it doesn’t change the overall course of the superpower competition, which is China. Is this the last time the Americans come to save us?”

An opinion poll in seven EU countries released last week by the European Council on Foreign Relations found evidence of shifting attitudes toward Russia.

Majorities in Europe now believe that Russia will invade Ukraine in 2022 and that it is important for the European Union and NATO to support Ukraine. Europeans are prepared to bear significant threats, including refugee pressure, higher energy costs and cyberattacks, and they see energy dependency on Russia as their greatest shared challenge.

“This has been a real wake-up call,” much more than in 2014, said Mark Leonard, the group’s director. The polling points to some fundamental views, he said, “that war in Europe is thinkable once again, that the EU should respond to Russian aggression.”

But even in France, during an election campaign, the crisis “reinforces the idea of NATO as the guarantor of territorial security for Europe rather than any illusion of European defense,” said Célia Belin of the Brookings Institution, even as it might “give an electric shock” to countries like Germany that have devalued security concerns for so long.

Nathalie Tocci, director of Italy’s International Affairs Institute, also doubts that even a major war in Ukraine “would translate into European defense, but it is already translating into a revival of NATO, since deterrence is what NATO does.” Putin, she said, “has done miracles by uniting us.”

Ulrike Franke is a self-confessed German millennial, a defense analyst who worries about her generation’s allergy to the military, especially as it moves into positions of power.

Ulrike Franke is a self-confessed German millennial, a defense analyst who worries about her generation’s allergy to the military, especially as it moves into positions of power. “After 30 years of peace,” she wrote last year in a well-read essay, “German millennials have a hard time adjusting to the world we are living in now. We struggle to think in terms of interests, we struggle with the concept of geopolitical power, and we struggle with military power being an element of geopolitical power.” Russia’s massive and open military threat to Ukraine, she and others say, is now shaking a sense of complacency among young and old Europeans alike who have never known war, hot or cold. For some, at least, the moment is an awakening as the threat of war grows real. But just how far Europe is prepared to go in shifting from a world where peace and security were taken for granted remains to be seen. For decades Europeans have paid relatively little in money, lives or resources for their defense — and paid even less attention, sheltering under a U.S. nuclear umbrella left over from the Cold War. That debate had begun to shift in recent years, even before Russia’s menacing of Ukraine, with talk of a more robust and independent European strategic and defense posture. But the crisis has done as much to expose European weakness on security issues as it has to fortify its sense of unity. Franke, 34, a senior fellow with the European Council on Foreign Relations, is not convinced that anything short of a major Russian invasion of Ukraine will very much alter public opinion. “We’re having in Europe and Germany a status quo problem,” she said in an interview. “We’re very comfortable with this version of European security, and most people don’t realize that to defend this status quo, we need to act.” The elite feel the cold wind from Russia, she said, but “on the level of public opinion, people want to be left alone and for nothing to touch them.” Franke, who is an expert in drone warfare, may be too pessimistic, some believe. Daniela Schwarzer, who ran the German Council on Foreign Relations and now manages Europe and Eurasia for the Open Society Foundations, thinks that “the image of Russia has changed a lot.” “Even in Germany there is a sober realism that our relations with Russia and our energy policy have to be dealt with in a much more strategic way than generally acknowledged in the past,” she said. But even after Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, Germany and Europe did very little to diminish their energy dependency on Russia or to prepare for Moscow weaponizing energy supplies. With the new Ukraine crisis, that is quickly changing, she said. Europeans bordering Russia have always warned about Moscow, but other Europeans farther away now see the point. “There is now the perception that conflict on our continent is possible,” Schwarzer said. In 2008, when Russian troops went into Georgia, or annexed Crimea, or inserted themselves into the recent conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, there was little lasting change in perception of Russia. “But this conflict would have a different dimension, since it so directly opposes the West and Russia, and is seen as proof that the current European security order no longer provides security,” she said. Peter Ricketts, a former British ambassador to France now in the House of Lords, agrees. This conflict has put “war back into focus again in the trans-Atlantic world,” he said. For the younger generation, concerned, like the German Greens, with the environment and focused on human rights and gender and racial equality, “this is 19th-century policy erupting and crashing into their 21st-century concerns,” he said. In the larger sense, Ricketts said, the conflict reminds Europeans of the importance of NATO and of U.S. leadership in the trans-Atlantic alliance. “Faith in talking to Russia rather than deterring will be severely damaged by this,” he said. A major Russian military action would bring about more military spending, push NATO to increase troop deployments closer to Russia, “deepen the chasm between Russia and the West and push Russia more into the hands of China and the renminbi zone, with Russia a small partner,” Ricketts said. Already, NATO countries, including Britain, France, Germany and the United States, have moved troops, aircraft and ships to shore up member states from Poland and the Baltics to Romania, with France offering a more permanent deployment in Romania. Those deployments may last for some time. There are “some long-term consequences, some long-term deterioration of the security environment in Europe from this significant Russian military buildup, the threatening rhetoric,” Jens Stoltenberg, NATO’s secretary-general, said as defense ministers gathered in Brussels. “I regret to say that this is the new normal in Europe.” There will also be new debate about the push by Emmanuel Macron, the French president, for European strategic autonomy and resilience. A European security crisis where the European Union has little to add beyond the threat of sanctions troubles many. But there is no easy or quick answer, suggested Robin Niblett, director of Chatham House. “This really does bring the security element to the fore, and it’s not what the EU is best suited to manage,” he said. “It will mean treating NATO more seriously as the anchor of European security and not overplaying EU strategic autonomy.” European security still comes only with U.S. leadership, he said, adding, “Maybe this crisis is telling that to Europeans, some of whom don’t like it.” But undercutting any new faith in U.S. leadership is a wide European concern that President Joe Biden is likely to be a one-term president, weakened by November’s midterm elections, and that former President Donald Trump or another Republican in his disruptive nationalist mode will win in 2024. “We don’t know what’s coming after Biden,” said Claudia Major of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs. “America is back for a moment, but it doesn’t change the overall course of the superpower competition, which is China. Is this the last time the Americans come to save us?” An opinion poll in seven EU countries released last week by the European Council on Foreign Relations found evidence of shifting attitudes toward Russia. Majorities in Europe now believe that Russia will invade Ukraine in 2022 and that it is important for the European Union and NATO to support Ukraine. Europeans are prepared to bear significant threats, including refugee pressure, higher energy costs and cyberattacks, and they see energy dependency on Russia as their greatest shared challenge. “This has been a real wake-up call,” much more than in 2014, said Mark Leonard, the group’s director. The polling points to some fundamental views, he said, “that war in Europe is thinkable once again, that the EU should respond to Russian aggression.” But even in France, during an election campaign, the crisis “reinforces the idea of NATO as the guarantor of territorial security for Europe rather than any illusion of European defense,” said Célia Belin of the Brookings Institution, even as it might “give an electric shock” to countries like Germany that have devalued security concerns for so long. Nathalie Tocci, director of Italy’s International Affairs Institute, also doubts that even a major war in Ukraine “would translate into European defense, but it is already translating into a revival of NATO, since deterrence is what NATO does.” Putin, she said, “has done miracles by uniting us.”

After 30 years of peace, Ukraine crisis shakes Europeans

Germany has accused Russia of endangering Europe's security with demands that recall the cold war. These comments come as fears continue to grow that Russians are poised to invade their neighbouring nation Ukraine.

Germany accuses Russia of cold war demands before Munich security conference

Tensions have risen in eastern Ukraine as Russian-controlled separatists there shelled a nursery school in Donbass and warned of escalation. Also, the United States has warned that Russia is now preparing to launch an invasion in the coming days.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Shelling by Russia-backed separatists in Donbass hits nursery school

Moscow still has the ability to launch a major attack, says the US as Russia pulls back troops announcing that its military drills in Crimea are over. Earlier, the West had warned of a Russian invasion into Ukraine on February 16. WION brings you more insights.

US and NATO unimpressed with Russia's troop pullback claim

Russia’s military announced the withdrawal of troops taking part in drills in annexed Crimea as Moscow signaled de-escalation in the Ukraine crisis.

Russia announces end of military drills in Crimea

Despite Moscow's assertion that it is withdrawing soldiers from the border, US President Joe Biden stated that the possibility of a Russian invasion of Ukraine is "extremely high" and might occur in "next several days".

Russia could attack on Ukraine in 'next several days', says US President Joe Biden

Ukraine on Wednesday initiated a discussion at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) about a recent statement made by Russian President Vladimir Putin on Donbass region. The 15-member council is all set to meet today to discuss the Ukraine crisis.

Ukraine calls for UNSC to discuss Donbass

<article>
Europe relies on Russia’s natural gas to help heat millions of homes, generate electricity and power factories. With Russian troops massed along Ukraine’s border, the Continent’s heavy dependence on Russia is limiting its diplomatic options and threatening to throw its energy supplies into turmoil.

If the flow of gas is interrupted, either as collateral damage from warfare or as a negotiating tactic by President Vladimir Putin of Russia, experts worry that already high prices in a constantly shifting global market could skyrocket. Businesses may be forced to temporarily close, and if cutoffs persist, households already facing higher utility bills this winter could feel even more pain.

Analysts and industry executives are skeptical that Putin would cut off gas, in part because of how important gas exports are to his country’s economy. But the tensions come at a pivotal time for many European nations that have turned to natural gas to help them bridge their transitions from fossil fuels to wind, solar and other cleaner sources.

Diplomatic proposals to counter Russia’s buildup center on sanctions that could limit energy trade. That could throw billions in investments and oil and gas contracts into jeopardy, especially for countries, including Germany and Italy, that rely on Russian gas more than others.

Germany, which is at the center of the diplomatic standoff, is Moscow’s most important customer. The bulk of the gas to Germany flows directly from Russia through a large pipeline in the Baltic Sea known as Nord Stream. A second pipeline, Nord Stream 2, was recently completed at a cost of $11 billion.

Fuel has yet to flow through Nord Stream 2. U.S. lawmakers in recent months have called for blocking its opening, as critics warn that the new pipeline could allow Moscow to wield greater influence over the Continent and starve Ukraine of transit fees through its existing pipeline network that are crucial to Kyiv’s economy.

President Joe Biden has said Nord Stream 2 will not go forward if Russia invades Ukraine. But in an indication of how the politics and business of energy are intertwined, the pipeline’s operating company is chaired by a former German chancellor, Gerhard Schröder.

Several large pipelines bring Russian gas into Europe, where it flows through a vast interconnected network. The amount of gas crossing Ukraine has declined sharply over the past decade, though it remains an important route. Other conduits are the Yamal pipeline through Poland and TurkStream, which feeds Turkey but also brings gas into Southern Europe.

In 2021, 38% of the natural gas used by the European Union came from Russia, according to Bruegel, a research organization. Some countries, like Poland and Lithuania, have been gradually reducing their reliance on Russian gas. For others, the dependency has been steadily growing.

If gas does stop flowing, importing countries would need to find other sources. Some of the difference would most likely be made up by bringing in more liquefied natural gas from sources around the globe.

Liquefied natural gas is made by chilling gas to around minus 260 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 162 degrees Celsius) so that it can be converted into liquid form and loaded more easily onto ships. The great advantage is that it can be transported stably from great distances, including from Australia and the United States — offering viable alternatives for local or regional sources.

In recent months, Europe has been witnessing a kind of dress rehearsal for a cutback in Russian gas as Moscow curtails shipments to Europe in what some analysts and politicians say is an effort to keep prices high. According to the International Energy Agency, Russia cut its gas exports by pipeline to Europe by 23% in the last quarter of 2021 compared with the same period a year earlier. At the same time, imports of liquefied gas have been on the rise.

In reality, gas markets are far from static, with volumes and direction of flows largely dictated by price. And while the crisis has not yet led to any military action, the threat of conflict has been weighing on markets. Prices in Europe were already high to end the year as limited storage levels raised concerns that there would be enough fuel to last the winter.

While they have since eased from the records hit in December, they are still roughly four times what they were a year ago.
</article>

Europe relies on Russia’s natural gas to help heat millions of homes, generate electricity and power factories. With Russian troops massed along Ukraine’s border, the Continent’s heavy dependence on Russia is limiting its diplomatic options and threatening to throw its energy supplies into turmoil.

Europe relies on Russia’s natural gas to help heat millions of homes, generate electricity and power factories. With Russian troops massed along Ukraine’s border, the Continent’s heavy dependence on Russia is limiting its diplomatic options and threatening to throw its energy supplies into turmoil. If the flow of gas is interrupted, either as collateral damage from warfare or as a negotiating tactic by President Vladimir Putin of Russia, experts worry that already high prices in a constantly shifting global market could skyrocket. Businesses may be forced to temporarily close, and if cutoffs persist, households already facing higher utility bills this winter could feel even more pain. Analysts and industry executives are skeptical that Putin would cut off gas, in part because of how important gas exports are to his country’s economy. But the tensions come at a pivotal time for many European nations that have turned to natural gas to help them bridge their transitions from fossil fuels to wind, solar and other cleaner sources. Diplomatic proposals to counter Russia’s buildup center on sanctions that could limit energy trade. That could throw billions in investments and oil and gas contracts into jeopardy, especially for countries, including Germany and Italy, that rely on Russian gas more than others. Germany, which is at the center of the diplomatic standoff, is Moscow’s most important customer. The bulk of the gas to Germany flows directly from Russia through a large pipeline in the Baltic Sea known as Nord Stream. A second pipeline, Nord Stream 2, was recently completed at a cost of $11 billion. Fuel has yet to flow through Nord Stream 2. U.S. lawmakers in recent months have called for blocking its opening, as critics warn that the new pipeline could allow Moscow to wield greater influence over the Continent and starve Ukraine of transit fees through its existing pipeline network that are crucial to Kyiv’s economy. President Joe Biden has said Nord Stream 2 will not go forward if Russia invades Ukraine. But in an indication of how the politics and business of energy are intertwined, the pipeline’s operating company is chaired by a former German chancellor, Gerhard Schröder. Several large pipelines bring Russian gas into Europe, where it flows through a vast interconnected network. The amount of gas crossing Ukraine has declined sharply over the past decade, though it remains an important route. Other conduits are the Yamal pipeline through Poland and TurkStream, which feeds Turkey but also brings gas into Southern Europe. In 2021, 38% of the natural gas used by the European Union came from Russia, according to Bruegel, a research organization. Some countries, like Poland and Lithuania, have been gradually reducing their reliance on Russian gas. For others, the dependency has been steadily growing. If gas does stop flowing, importing countries would need to find other sources. Some of the difference would most likely be made up by bringing in more liquefied natural gas from sources around the globe. Liquefied natural gas is made by chilling gas to around minus 260 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 162 degrees Celsius) so that it can be converted into liquid form and loaded more easily onto ships. The great advantage is that it can be transported stably from great distances, including from Australia and the United States — offering viable alternatives for local or regional sources. In recent months, Europe has been witnessing a kind of dress rehearsal for a cutback in Russian gas as Moscow curtails shipments to Europe in what some analysts and politicians say is an effort to keep prices high. According to the International Energy Agency, Russia cut its gas exports by pipeline to Europe by 23% in the last quarter of 2021 compared with the same period a year earlier. At the same time, imports of liquefied gas have been on the rise. In reality, gas markets are far from static, with volumes and direction of flows largely dictated by price. And while the crisis has not yet led to any military action, the threat of conflict has been weighing on markets. Prices in Europe were already high to end the year as limited storage levels raised concerns that there would be enough fuel to last the winter. While they have since eased from the records hit in December, they are still roughly four times what they were a year ago.

How a Ukraine conflict could reshape Europe’s reliance on Russia

After the Indian embassy issued an advisory asking its nationals including students to consider leaving Ukraine due to tensions with Russia, reports claim the government may increase&nbsp;flights to Ukraine to bring back Indians.

The Indian embassy had asked citizens to avoid "non-essential" travel to Ukraine. India's ministry of external affairs has set up a control room to provide information to Indian nationals in Ukraine.

"The embassy of India has been receiving several appeals about non-availability of flights from Ukraine to India. In this regard, students are advised not to resort to panic, but book the earliest available and convenient flights to travel to India," the MEA&nbsp;said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-nationals-including-students-should-leave-ukraine-says-government-advisory-453383">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian nationals including students may consider leaving Ukraine, says government advisory</a>

"To meet the additional demand, more flights are being planned in the near future, including from Ukrainian International Airlines and Air India. Details on the same would be shared by the embassy as and when confirmed," it said&nbsp;as reports indicated&nbsp;that students were finding it difficult to return due to hike in airfare.

Several countries have pulled out their diplomatic staff from Ukraine due to tensions with Russia at the border.

Amid reports of difficulties faced by Indians in Ukraine, reports say a parliamentary committee is likely to discuss the issue.

The contact details of the helpline in the Indian embassy in Ukraine are: Phone: +380 997300428 +380 997300483. Email: cons1.Kyiv@mea.gov.in.

The contact details of the control room in Delhi are: Phone +91 11 23012113, +91 11 23014104, +91 11 23017905 and 1800118797 (toll free). Email: situationroom@mea.gov.in.

(With inputs from Agencies)

After the Indian embassy issued an advisory asking its nationals including students to consider leaving Ukraine due to tensions with Russia, reports claim the government may increase flights to Ukraine to bring back Indians.

After the Indian embassy issued an advisory asking its nationals including students to consider leaving Ukraine due to tensions with Russia, reports claim the government may increase flights to Ukraine to bring back Indians. The Indian embassy had asked citizens to avoid "non-essential" travel to Ukraine. India's ministry of external affairs has set up a control room to provide information to Indian nationals in Ukraine. "The embassy of India has been receiving several appeals about non-availability of flights from Ukraine to India. In this regard, students are advised not to resort to panic, but book the earliest available and convenient flights to travel to India," the MEA said. Also Read: Indian nationals including students may consider leaving Ukraine, says government advisory "To meet the additional demand, more flights are being planned in the near future, including from Ukrainian International Airlines and Air India. Details on the same would be shared by the embassy as and when confirmed," it said as reports indicated that students were finding it difficult to return due to hike in airfare. Several countries have pulled out their diplomatic staff from Ukraine due to tensions with Russia at the border. Amid reports of difficulties faced by Indians in Ukraine, reports say a parliamentary committee is likely to discuss the issue. The contact details of the helpline in the Indian embassy in Ukraine are: Phone: +380 997300428 +380 997300483. Email: cons1.Kyiv@mea.gov.in. The contact details of the control room in Delhi are: Phone +91 11 23012113, +91 11 23014104, +91 11 23017905 and 1800118797 (toll free). Email: situationroom@mea.gov.in. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine crisis: Government planning more flights to bring back Indians; helpline setup

Russia on Tuesday failed to attend a meeting of members of the OSCE, the world's largest security body, to explain its military buildup near the Ukraine border.

Kyiv had requested the meeting with Russia and other members of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe to "discuss the reinforcement and movement of Russian forces along our border" under the so-called Vienna Document.

The agreement requires the Vienna-based body's 57 members to share information about their military forces and notify each other about major activities.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ready-to-work-together-with-the-west-says-putin-in-joint-press-conference-with-olaf-scholz-453543">'Ready to work together' with the West, says Putin in joint press conference with Olaf Scholz</a>

"The United States welcomes the decision by Ukraine to call for this meeting," Michael Carpenter, the US ambassador to the OSCE, told the closed-door session.

"Unfortunately and regrettably, though perhaps not surprisingly, the Russian Federation has absented itself today," he added, according to his statement.

A source with knowledge of the meeting confirmed to AFP that Russia had failed to attend.

The Russian representative to the OSCE did not immediately return a request for comment.

The French mission to the OSCE in a statement on behalf of the EU urged Russia "to immediately de-escalate, to engage constructively on the diplomatic track and to fulfil its commitments in good faith".

Less than a dozen such meetings under the Vienna Document have been held since it was adopted in 1990, the source said.

On Monday, a similar meeting took place -- this one requested by the Baltic states to seek explanations from Belarus over its massive military drills with Russia.

Western leaders said Tuesday they were seeing positive signs that Russia was looking to ease tensions over Ukraine, after Moscow announced it was pulling back some of the troops deployed on its neighbour's borders.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Tuesday failed to attend a meeting of members of the OSCE, the world's largest security body, to explain its military buildup near the Ukraine border. Kyiv had requested the meeting with Russia and other members of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe to "discuss the reinforcement and movement of Russian forces along our border" under the so-called Vienna Document.

Russia on Tuesday failed to attend a meeting of members of the OSCE, the world's largest security body, to explain its military buildup near the Ukraine border. Kyiv had requested the meeting with Russia and other members of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe to "discuss the reinforcement and movement of Russian forces along our border" under the so-called Vienna Document. The agreement requires the Vienna-based body's 57 members to share information about their military forces and notify each other about major activities. Also Read | 'Ready to work together' with the West, says Putin in joint press conference with Olaf Scholz "The United States welcomes the decision by Ukraine to call for this meeting," Michael Carpenter, the US ambassador to the OSCE, told the closed-door session. "Unfortunately and regrettably, though perhaps not surprisingly, the Russian Federation has absented itself today," he added, according to his statement. A source with knowledge of the meeting confirmed to AFP that Russia had failed to attend. The Russian representative to the OSCE did not immediately return a request for comment. The French mission to the OSCE in a statement on behalf of the EU urged Russia "to immediately de-escalate, to engage constructively on the diplomatic track and to fulfil its commitments in good faith". Less than a dozen such meetings under the Vienna Document have been held since it was adopted in 1990, the source said. On Monday, a similar meeting took place -- this one requested by the Baltic states to seek explanations from Belarus over its massive military drills with Russia. Western leaders said Tuesday they were seeing positive signs that Russia was looking to ease tensions over Ukraine, after Moscow announced it was pulling back some of the troops deployed on its neighbour's borders. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia skips OSCE meeting on Ukraine crisis

Backdrop

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declares 16 February, 2022 as ‘Day of Unity’ apprehending Russian invasion based on US assessment, after talking to US President about Russia’s military buildup along Ukraine’s borders, with both committing to pursue “diplomacy and deterrence”.

It comes after inconclusive talks between President Putin and Joe Biden suggesting ‘Swift and severe costs’ in case of invasion, as well as Normandy format between Russia, Ukraine, France and Germany. USA continues to hype the threat, following it with evacuation of troops and citizens, whereas Russia maintains that it has no intention to invade Ukraine, but draws a redline for Ukraine not to join NATO.

Ukraine stands encircled from three directions by Russian troops with largest military posturing since World War II. Mass concentration of troops in Eastern borders, posturing and joint exercises with Belarus and Russian Black Sea Fleet combat-ready with bases at Crimea. Ukraine too, fully aware of its military capacity limitations, is getting combat-ready to protect its sovereignty.

While the flashpoint may be Ukraine but contestation is of big powers is involved directly or indirectly. The outcome of this faceoff has global implications not only in Europe, but globally including countries who are outside the region. Diplomacy is trying its best, but failing so far. The geo-strategic location of Ukraine is such that, in the midst of continuing geopolitical maneuverings, it can't help but be the test bed for this Russia-NATO competition.

Main stakeholders and their stance&nbsp;

Russia&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

In his meeting with former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev on February 9, 1990, former US Secretary of State James Baker's famous "not one inch eastward" assurance about NATO expansion was one of a cascade of guarantees about Soviet security provided by Western leaders, but no agreement was signed.

Post USSR disintegration in 1991, NATO adopted open-door policy allowing erstwhile USSR countries to join NATO, if agreed by all existing members, which was viewed as eastward expansion of NATO and resented by successive leaders, but NATO prevailed.

When such eastward expansion, after adding 14 countries, reached at consideration of Georgia and Ukraine, Putin drew a redline, failing which Russia would have to face a direct land border with NATO at strategically sensitive area and perhaps deployment of NATO arsenal threatening Russia.

It would have also made Russian Black Sea fleet redundant, thus compromising security of Russia. Russia thus reacted with annexation of Georgia, Crimea and posturing Ukraine, after it renewed its effort to join NATO, and is firm that it will not allow Ukraine’s entry into NATO at any cost. &nbsp;

Ukraine&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ukraine is tensed, but getting ready for confrontation knowing fully well that the recent threat is asymmetric in favour of Russia, if conflict is not prevented by diplomacy. Ukraine has a reason to feel betrayed because in 1994, ‘The Memorandum of Security Assurance’ was signed at Budapest, in which Russia, US and UK assured that its sovereignty will not be compromised, which was a major factor in Ukraine giving up its nuclear arsenal (Third largest nuclear arsenal in the world at that time) and signed NPT.

Now, Russia appears to be threatening its sovereignty, and the United States and the United Kingdom are unwilling to send boots on the ground to protect it.

Ukraine is not yet a member of NATO, so NATO and the US are not obligated to defend it. Instead, they are opting for the easy option of assisting Ukraine in building its capacity to fight Russians, with the threat of crippling sanctions on Russia if it invades Ukraine, which haven't been effective in the past.

Strategically and geographically, Ukraine finds itself as test bed to gauge Russian resolve against NATO having lost Crimea already, with threat of proxy war from Eastern region, even if it shelves/postpones decision of joining NATO. Ukraine continues with its demand to join NATO as its sovereign decision, although there are many NATO members, who don’t want to include it. &nbsp;

US&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Struggling with loss of face post annexation of Georgia, Crimea and recently botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, losing footprints in most of West Asia, US wants to checkmate Russian aggressive stance by taking up sovereignty issue of Ukraine in terms of freedom to join NATO or otherwise.

It however, has no appetite to put boots on ground in Ukraine, but is worried that a westward expansion of Russia can make some of the existing NATO allies vulnerable and is doing symbolic strengthening of its allies, with hardware support to Ukraine.

US is also concerned that if Nord Stream 2 pipeline project succeeds many more NATO allies will be dependent on Russia, which will strategically weaken the declining NATO. It is also a test case for US-Taiwan relationship, which has almost similar equation with slight variation. If it blinks here, it loses psychological edge against China too. The US hype about full scale invasion could also be influenced of lobby of arms dealers to promote sales.

EU &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

EU members who are NATO allies are trying to put up a joint brave front, but the cracks are visible. EU’s 40 percent dependency on Russia is crucial to preserve its energy interest.

It may be easy for Joe Biden to say that Russian offensive will be end of Nord Stream 2, but it may not be easy for Germany to second it. The best option for them is diplomacy, which they are trying hard with inconclusive visit of President Macron and ongoing visit of German Chancellor to Ukraine and Russia with no worthwhile success so far. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Other Global Players

China&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Its happiest situation for China, as the faceoff has diverted attention of US from China to Europe, to some extent. It can derive pleasure out of awkward position of US, cementing ties with Moscow as never before, at the same time test the appetite of Joe Biden, in case it decides to invade Taiwan. It bears no obligation and can watch from sidelines playing neutral with no cost to bear. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

India&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

India has good relations with all affected parties and can remain neutral. No country including Ukraine can criticize India for neutral stance, as most stake-holders held similar position when China violated all CBMs to enter areas, where it was not supposed to and Ladakh standoff continues. Indian concerns will include its diaspora, trade (edible oils, pharmaceutical exports etc) with Ukraine and impact of sanctions on Russia, if announced by Washington. &nbsp;

NATO allies and partners in Indo-Pacific like Taiwan, Japan, Australia and South Korea are also watching NATO responses keenly as the situation could replicate itself, should Xi Jinping decide to reunify China or assert further in South/East China Sea or Indo-Pacific.

Possible Scenarios

1. Full-scale invasion &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Strategically the cost-benefit analysis doesn’t suggest a full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia, because NATO, which was already reluctant in admitting Ukraine into NATO has been shaken up adequately not to do so. Having achieved its major aim, annexation will be cost prohibitive in terms of casualties and economic sanctions, forcing NATO to respond directly or indirectly to avoid loss of face, without achieving anything substantial. It will unnecessarily join direct land borders with NATO, which is worse than having Ukraine as a buffer in between.

2. Limited objective &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia integrates Donetsk People Republic and Luhansk people Republic, who already treat themselves as republics, to teach Ukraine a lesson and tests NATO reaction. The cost paid by Russia will be lower than full scale invasion, but sanctions, economic cost will be almost the same. It will strengthen Ukraine’s case for induction in NATO, with sharp criticism of Russia. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
3. Proxy war and de-escalate&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

There will be no additional gains for Russia. It can be loss of face for Putin with no change in probability of Ukraine’s inclusion into NATO.&nbsp;

NATO declares non-acceptance of Ukraine as member or Ukraine gives up demand for inclusion in NATO. In this case Putin will come out stronger and it will be loss of face for Joe Biden, loss of credibility of NATO and confidence of its allies in Indo-pacific.&nbsp;

4. Standoff continues&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

It may be too costly for Russia and Ukraine in terms of finances. Unlikely beyond a point.

5. Diplomacy Prevails &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Both sides provide a face-saver to each other to de-escalate. Best option in global interest.&nbsp;

In all scenarios, China benefits immensely from the situation and US doesn’t seem to gain much, except some additional arms scale in case of full or limited invasion. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Backdrop Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declares 16 February, 2022 as ‘Day of Unity’ apprehending Russian invasion based on US assessment, after talking to US President about Russia’s military buildup along Ukraine’s borders, with both committing to pursue “diplomacy and deterrence”.

Backdrop Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declares 16 February, 2022 as ‘Day of Unity’ apprehending Russian invasion based on US assessment, after talking to US President about Russia’s military buildup along Ukraine’s borders, with both committing to pursue “diplomacy and deterrence”. It comes after inconclusive talks between President Putin and Joe Biden suggesting ‘Swift and severe costs’ in case of invasion, as well as Normandy format between Russia, Ukraine, France and Germany. USA continues to hype the threat, following it with evacuation of troops and citizens, whereas Russia maintains that it has no intention to invade Ukraine, but draws a redline for Ukraine not to join NATO. Ukraine stands encircled from three directions by Russian troops with largest military posturing since World War II. Mass concentration of troops in Eastern borders, posturing and joint exercises with Belarus and Russian Black Sea Fleet combat-ready with bases at Crimea. Ukraine too, fully aware of its military capacity limitations, is getting combat-ready to protect its sovereignty. While the flashpoint may be Ukraine but contestation is of big powers is involved directly or indirectly. The outcome of this faceoff has global implications not only in Europe, but globally including countries who are outside the region. Diplomacy is trying its best, but failing so far. The geo-strategic location of Ukraine is such that, in the midst of continuing geopolitical maneuverings, it can't help but be the test bed for this Russia-NATO competition. Main stakeholders and their stance Russia In his meeting with former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev on February 9, 1990, former US Secretary of State James Baker's famous "not one inch eastward" assurance about NATO expansion was one of a cascade of guarantees about Soviet security provided by Western leaders, but no agreement was signed. Post USSR disintegration in 1991, NATO adopted open-door policy allowing erstwhile USSR countries to join NATO, if agreed by all existing members, which was viewed as eastward expansion of NATO and resented by successive leaders, but NATO prevailed. When such eastward expansion, after adding 14 countries, reached at consideration of Georgia and Ukraine, Putin drew a redline, failing which Russia would have to face a direct land border with NATO at strategically sensitive area and perhaps deployment of NATO arsenal threatening Russia. It would have also made Russian Black Sea fleet redundant, thus compromising security of Russia. Russia thus reacted with annexation of Georgia, Crimea and posturing Ukraine, after it renewed its effort to join NATO, and is firm that it will not allow Ukraine’s entry into NATO at any cost. Ukraine Ukraine is tensed, but getting ready for confrontation knowing fully well that the recent threat is asymmetric in favour of Russia, if conflict is not prevented by diplomacy. Ukraine has a reason to feel betrayed because in 1994, ‘The Memorandum of Security Assurance’ was signed at Budapest, in which Russia, US and UK assured that its sovereignty will not be compromised, which was a major factor in Ukraine giving up its nuclear arsenal (Third largest nuclear arsenal in the world at that time) and signed NPT. Now, Russia appears to be threatening its sovereignty, and the United States and the United Kingdom are unwilling to send boots on the ground to protect it. Ukraine is not yet a member of NATO, so NATO and the US are not obligated to defend it. Instead, they are opting for the easy option of assisting Ukraine in building its capacity to fight Russians, with the threat of crippling sanctions on Russia if it invades Ukraine, which haven't been effective in the past. Strategically and geographically, Ukraine finds itself as test bed to gauge Russian resolve against NATO having lost Crimea already, with threat of proxy war from Eastern region, even if it shelves/postpones decision of joining NATO. Ukraine continues with its demand to join NATO as its sovereign decision, although there are many NATO members, who don’t want to include it. US Struggling with loss of face post annexation of Georgia, Crimea and recently botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, losing footprints in most of West Asia, US wants to checkmate Russian aggressive stance by taking up sovereignty issue of Ukraine in terms of freedom to join NATO or otherwise. It however, has no appetite to put boots on ground in Ukraine, but is worried that a westward expansion of Russia can make some of the existing NATO allies vulnerable and is doing symbolic strengthening of its allies, with hardware support to Ukraine. US is also concerned that if Nord Stream 2 pipeline project succeeds many more NATO allies will be dependent on Russia, which will strategically weaken the declining NATO. It is also a test case for US-Taiwan relationship, which has almost similar equation with slight variation. If it blinks here, it loses psychological edge against China too. The US hype about full scale invasion could also be influenced of lobby of arms dealers to promote sales. EU EU members who are NATO allies are trying to put up a joint brave front, but the cracks are visible. EU’s 40 percent dependency on Russia is crucial to preserve its energy interest. It may be easy for Joe Biden to say that Russian offensive will be end of Nord Stream 2, but it may not be easy for Germany to second it. The best option for them is diplomacy, which they are trying hard with inconclusive visit of President Macron and ongoing visit of German Chancellor to Ukraine and Russia with no worthwhile success so far. Other Global Players China Its happiest situation for China, as the faceoff has diverted attention of US from China to Europe, to some extent. It can derive pleasure out of awkward position of US, cementing ties with Moscow as never before, at the same time test the appetite of Joe Biden, in case it decides to invade Taiwan. It bears no obligation and can watch from sidelines playing neutral with no cost to bear. India India has good relations with all affected parties and can remain neutral. No country including Ukraine can criticize India for neutral stance, as most stake-holders held similar position when China violated all CBMs to enter areas, where it was not supposed to and Ladakh standoff continues. Indian concerns will include its diaspora, trade (edible oils, pharmaceutical exports etc) with Ukraine and impact of sanctions on Russia, if announced by Washington. NATO allies and partners in Indo-Pacific like Taiwan, Japan, Australia and South Korea are also watching NATO responses keenly as the situation could replicate itself, should Xi Jinping decide to reunify China or assert further in South/East China Sea or Indo-Pacific. Possible Scenarios 1. Full-scale invasion Strategically the cost-benefit analysis doesn’t suggest a full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia, because NATO, which was already reluctant in admitting Ukraine into NATO has been shaken up adequately not to do so. Having achieved its major aim, annexation will be cost prohibitive in terms of casualties and economic sanctions, forcing NATO to respond directly or indirectly to avoid loss of face, without achieving anything substantial. It will unnecessarily join direct land borders with NATO, which is worse than having Ukraine as a buffer in between. 2. Limited objective Russia integrates Donetsk People Republic and Luhansk people Republic, who already treat themselves as republics, to teach Ukraine a lesson and tests NATO reaction. The cost paid by Russia will be lower than full scale invasion, but sanctions, economic cost will be almost the same. It will strengthen Ukraine’s case for induction in NATO, with sharp criticism of Russia. 3. Proxy war and de-escalate There will be no additional gains for Russia. It can be loss of face for Putin with no change in probability of Ukraine’s inclusion into NATO. NATO declares non-acceptance of Ukraine as member or Ukraine gives up demand for inclusion in NATO. In this case Putin will come out stronger and it will be loss of face for Joe Biden, loss of credibility of NATO and confidence of its allies in Indo-pacific. 4. Standoff continues It may be too costly for Russia and Ukraine in terms of finances. Unlikely beyond a point. 5. Diplomacy Prevails Both sides provide a face-saver to each other to de-escalate. Best option in global interest. In all scenarios, China benefits immensely from the situation and US doesn’t seem to gain much, except some additional arms scale in case of full or limited invasion. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Why Ukraine is a testbed for big power contestation

Leaders of the European Union may hold an emergency summit on Ukraine crisis on the sidelines of a meeting with their African counterparts, reported AFP citing a senior EU official.&nbsp;

Russia continues to maintain a heavy military presence near its border with Ukraine and Western countries have warned of an imminent invasion.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was the latest EU leader to embark on diplomatic efforts as he held talks Tuesday in Kyiv before heading to Moscow for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The official said Brussels was waiting for the results of Scholz's visit to the Kremlin and an emergency summit was "possible" if needed when EU leaders gather in Brussels Thursday for the Africa meeting.&nbsp;

The EU -- alongside other Western allies -- has vowed to impose massive sanctions on Moscow if it stages a further incursion into Ukraine.&nbsp; 
Officials in Brussels have come up with a raft of options for the sanctions but the leaders of the 27 member states would need to sign off on them.&nbsp;

The EU official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the West could not say if Putin has yet taken a decision to invade -- but warned that an attack could take place at any moment.

Moscow -- which denies it is planning an incursion -- on Monday signalled a possible easing of the crisis by keeping the door open for dialogue with the West and saying it was ending some military drills.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Leaders of the European Union may hold an emergency summit on Ukraine crisis on the sidelines of a meeting with their African counterparts, reported AFP citing a senior EU official.

Leaders of the European Union may hold an emergency summit on Ukraine crisis on the sidelines of a meeting with their African counterparts, reported AFP citing a senior EU official. Russia continues to maintain a heavy military presence near its border with Ukraine and Western countries have warned of an imminent invasion. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was the latest EU leader to embark on diplomatic efforts as he held talks Tuesday in Kyiv before heading to Moscow for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The official said Brussels was waiting for the results of Scholz's visit to the Kremlin and an emergency summit was "possible" if needed when EU leaders gather in Brussels Thursday for the Africa meeting. The EU -- alongside other Western allies -- has vowed to impose massive sanctions on Moscow if it stages a further incursion into Ukraine. Officials in Brussels have come up with a raft of options for the sanctions but the leaders of the 27 member states would need to sign off on them. The EU official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the West could not say if Putin has yet taken a decision to invade -- but warned that an attack could take place at any moment. Moscow -- which denies it is planning an incursion -- on Monday signalled a possible easing of the crisis by keeping the door open for dialogue with the West and saying it was ending some military drills. (With inputs from agencies)

EU plans emergency summit over Ukraine crisis

In the midst of the uncertainty in Ukraine about a possible Russian invasion, the Indian Embassy in Kyiv urged Indians, particularly students whose presence is not vital, to leave the country temporarily.

India issues travel advisory for citizens, students in Ukraine as tensions rise

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

Amid worsening situation in eastern Europe over Ukraine, Belarus envoy to India Andrei Rzheussky asserted his country’s position on Tuesday saying that they will “never create war to neighbours".

The remark from the ambassador comes as tensions have been rising between the US and its ally Russia over the latter’s troop build-up near Ukrainian borders.

The security talks between the US, NATO allies and Russia have failed even as the possibility of war looms large over Europe.

In response to a WION question, if war could happen in Europe over the current crisis, Rzheussky said, "We never create war to our neighbours. If we detect threat on our territory, we will respond. But as our president reiterated, only if somebody enters our territory with not so peaceful purposes."

Rzheussky was referring to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko’s statement in parliament on Friday that if “war breaks out, everyone will lose.”

The envoy said, "As for Belarus, as our president mentioned a couple of days ago during his address to the Parliament that we are a peaceful nation, peaceful people, but if you would like to have peace, you should be prepared for war. That is why we are conducting joint military exercises with our close ally Russia. We should be prepared for challenges which exist around the world, even on our borders".

Russian troops are currently in Belarus, which shares borders with Ukraine, undertaking military exercises.

Belarus was recently in news over the migrant crisis with neighbours Poland, Lithuania and Latvia.&nbsp;

Talking about the crisis, the envoy said, "We still have between 500-1,000 people who are on our territory. Because of the winters, we allow them to live in a special warehouse facility.”

The number of migrants from West Asian countries had amassed near the border with Poland, even as the cold temperatures had led to massive humanitarian crisis.

The western countries accused Belarus of trying to weaponise migrants due to the sanctions on the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Envoy highlighted that people are stuck on the border "not because they want to stay in Belarus, but because they wanted to enter Europe”.

“They escaped from a difficult condition in their own countries and want to go to Europe for a better life. But unfortunately, European countries closed their borders and harshly stopped them from entering,” he said.

The envoy was speaking to WION during an event in Delhi. Belarus has opened a tourism information centre in the national capital.

The envoy said, "It is a proper time to promote Belarus in India. Belarus is a perfect place for Indian people to visit and to see how beautiful my country is. Our country is called blue eye because of thousands of lakes. and rivers. It is also called the lung of Europe, because of forest cover that spans over 1/3rd of the territory.”

Amid worsening situation in eastern Europe over Ukraine, Belarus envoy to India Andrei Rzheussky asserted his country’s position on Tuesday saying that they will “never create war to neighbours".

Amid worsening situation in eastern Europe over Ukraine, Belarus envoy to India Andrei Rzheussky asserted his country’s position on Tuesday saying that they will “never create war to neighbours". The remark from the ambassador comes as tensions have been rising between the US and its ally Russia over the latter’s troop build-up near Ukrainian borders. The security talks between the US, NATO allies and Russia have failed even as the possibility of war looms large over Europe. In response to a WION question, if war could happen in Europe over the current crisis, Rzheussky said, "We never create war to our neighbours. If we detect threat on our territory, we will respond. But as our president reiterated, only if somebody enters our territory with not so peaceful purposes." Rzheussky was referring to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko’s statement in parliament on Friday that if “war breaks out, everyone will lose.” The envoy said, "As for Belarus, as our president mentioned a couple of days ago during his address to the Parliament that we are a peaceful nation, peaceful people, but if you would like to have peace, you should be prepared for war. That is why we are conducting joint military exercises with our close ally Russia. We should be prepared for challenges which exist around the world, even on our borders". Russian troops are currently in Belarus, which shares borders with Ukraine, undertaking military exercises. Belarus was recently in news over the migrant crisis with neighbours Poland, Lithuania and Latvia. Talking about the crisis, the envoy said, "We still have between 500-1,000 people who are on our territory. Because of the winters, we allow them to live in a special warehouse facility.” The number of migrants from West Asian countries had amassed near the border with Poland, even as the cold temperatures had led to massive humanitarian crisis. The western countries accused Belarus of trying to weaponise migrants due to the sanctions on the country. Envoy highlighted that people are stuck on the border "not because they want to stay in Belarus, but because they wanted to enter Europe”. “They escaped from a difficult condition in their own countries and want to go to Europe for a better life. But unfortunately, European countries closed their borders and harshly stopped them from entering,” he said. The envoy was speaking to WION during an event in Delhi. Belarus has opened a tourism information centre in the national capital. The envoy said, "It is a proper time to promote Belarus in India. Belarus is a perfect place for Indian people to visit and to see how beautiful my country is. Our country is called blue eye because of thousands of lakes. and rivers. It is also called the lung of Europe, because of forest cover that spans over 1/3rd of the territory.”

Ukraine crisis: Belarus envoy asserts country's position, says don’t want war in eastern Europe

US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin talked over the phone for more than 1 hour on Saturday as tensions over the Ukraine crisis reach a boiling point.

According to White House officials, Biden, during the call, warned Putin that Ukraine attack will bring “swift and severe costs”.

Biden said that the United States "will respond decisively and impose swift and severe costs on Russia” should it invade Ukraine.

According to a readout from the White House, Biden stressed that “while the United States remains prepared to engage in diplomacy, in full coordination with our Allies and partners, we are equally prepared for other scenarios.”

Putin, on the other hand, slammed the Western countries claim of an imminent Moscow invasion of Ukraine as a “provocation”.

A US official told AFP that&nbsp;more than one-hour call between Biden and Putin had “no fundamental change.”

“The call was professional and substantive and lasted a bit over an hour. There was no fundamental change in the dynamics unfolding now for several weeks," an unnamed US official said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-pulls-out-some-diplomatic-staff-from-ukraine-as-tensions-with-west-intensify-452664" hreflang="en">Russia pulls out some diplomatic staff from Ukraine as tensions intensify</a>

Meanwhile, Dutch flight carrier KLM has suspended flights to Ukraine until further notice.

The airline said it had cancelled its scheduled Saturday evening flight to Kyiv and suspended all other Ukraine flights “until further notice”, after it conducted a “comprehensive security analysis” as the Dutch government warned citizens against travel to the country.

Russia has massed well over 100,000 troops near the Ukraine border and has sent troops to exercises in neighbouring Belarus, but denies that it intends to launch an offensive against Ukraine.

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 timing of any possible Russian military action is unclear.

But the US intelligence claims that Russia is looking at Wednesday as a target date, according to media reports.

The White House publicly underscored that the US does not know with certainty whether Putin is committed to invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin talked over the phone for more than 1 hour on Saturday as tensions over the Ukraine crisis reach a boiling point.

US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin talked over the phone for more than 1 hour on Saturday as tensions over the Ukraine crisis reach a boiling point. According to White House officials, Biden, during the call, warned Putin that Ukraine attack will bring “swift and severe costs”. Biden said that the United States "will respond decisively and impose swift and severe costs on Russia” should it invade Ukraine. According to a readout from the White House, Biden stressed that “while the United States remains prepared to engage in diplomacy, in full coordination with our Allies and partners, we are equally prepared for other scenarios.” Putin, on the other hand, slammed the Western countries claim of an imminent Moscow invasion of Ukraine as a “provocation”. A US official told AFP that more than one-hour call between Biden and Putin had “no fundamental change.” “The call was professional and substantive and lasted a bit over an hour. There was no fundamental change in the dynamics unfolding now for several weeks," an unnamed US official said. Also read | Russia pulls out some diplomatic staff from Ukraine as tensions intensify Meanwhile, Dutch flight carrier KLM has suspended flights to Ukraine until further notice. The airline said it had cancelled its scheduled Saturday evening flight to Kyiv and suspended all other Ukraine flights “until further notice”, after it conducted a “comprehensive security analysis” as the Dutch government warned citizens against travel to the country. Russia has massed well over 100,000 troops near the Ukraine border and has sent troops to exercises in neighbouring Belarus, but denies that it intends to launch an offensive against Ukraine. Also read | Biden tells allies Russia may attack Ukraine on February 16: Reports The timing of any possible Russian military action is unclear. But the US intelligence claims that Russia is looking at Wednesday as a target date, according to media reports. The White House publicly underscored that the US does not know with certainty whether Putin is committed to invasion. (With inputs from agencies)

Hour-long Biden-Putin talks yield no breakthrough on Ukraine crisis

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday indicated, but in an indirect way, that Ukraine would continue to pursue its goal of seeking membership of North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Russia is fiercely against Ukraine's (former Soviet country) inclusion in NATO. Zelenskiy was speaking in a joint press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Ukrainian capital Kyiv.

Ukraine's envoy to Britain had suggested Kyiv may reconsider its NATO bid but later backtracked while acknowledging concessions could be on offer amid Western warnings of a potentially imminent Russian invasion.

Russia, which continues to maintain a militaery presence of more than 100,000 troops near Ukraine has sought guarantees from the West that Ukraine would never join NATO.

"Today, many journalists and many leaders are hinting a little to Ukraine that it is possible not to take risks, not to constantly raise the issue of future membership in the alliance, because these risks are associated with the reaction of the Russian Federation," said Zelenskiy at a joint news conference with Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Kyiv.

"I believe that we should move along the path we have chosen."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-climbdown-lavrov-tells-putin-about-chance-of-agreement-with-west-453248">Russian climbdown? Lavrov tells Putin about 'chance' of agreement with West</a>

Olaf Scholz is in Ukraine as part of hurried diplomatic efforts to avoid war on European soil. On Tuesday (February 15) he will fly to Moscow for talks with the Russian side.

Scholz said it was strange Russia should raise this issue anyhow given it was not immediately on the agenda.

'BY YOUR SIDE'

He told reporters he saw "no reasonable justification" for Russia's border buildup, and that Moscow should accept offers to discuss European security.

Scholz's trip was part of a flurry of diplomacy to de-escalate the crisis through dialogue and the threat of sanctions. On Tuesday, Scholz will fly to Moscow to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin.

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>

The chancellor has ratcheted up engagement in the Ukraine crisis over the past week after critics accused him of lack of leadership and mixed signals in one of Europe's worst security crises in decades.

"Germany stands right by your side," he said on Monday, underscoring that the country was Ukraine's biggest financial backer and announcing a new credit of 150 million euros ($170 million).

Ukrainian officials have publicly criticized Germany for refusing to sell weapons to Kyiv - Berlin argues it cannot due to its bloody 20th century history - and over reluctance to pull the plug on a controversial Russian-German gas pipeline project.

Ukraine as well as Western allies argue the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which is built but not yet operational, would enable Russia to cut Ukraine out of Europe's energy supply and make it more vulnerable to Russian invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday indicated, but in an indirect way, that Ukraine would continue to pursue its goal of seeking membership of North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday indicated, but in an indirect way, that Ukraine would continue to pursue its goal of seeking membership of North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Russia is fiercely against Ukraine's (former Soviet country) inclusion in NATO. Zelenskiy was speaking in a joint press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Ukrainian capital Kyiv. Ukraine's envoy to Britain had suggested Kyiv may reconsider its NATO bid but later backtracked while acknowledging concessions could be on offer amid Western warnings of a potentially imminent Russian invasion. Russia, which continues to maintain a militaery presence of more than 100,000 troops near Ukraine has sought guarantees from the West that Ukraine would never join NATO. "Today, many journalists and many leaders are hinting a little to Ukraine that it is possible not to take risks, not to constantly raise the issue of future membership in the alliance, because these risks are associated with the reaction of the Russian Federation," said Zelenskiy at a joint news conference with Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Kyiv. "I believe that we should move along the path we have chosen." Also Read | Russian climbdown? Lavrov tells Putin about 'chance' of agreement with West Olaf Scholz is in Ukraine as part of hurried diplomatic efforts to avoid war on European soil. On Tuesday (February 15) he will fly to Moscow for talks with the Russian side. Scholz said it was strange Russia should raise this issue anyhow given it was not immediately on the agenda. 'BY YOUR SIDE' He told reporters he saw "no reasonable justification" for Russia's border buildup, and that Moscow should accept offers to discuss European security. Scholz's trip was part of a flurry of diplomacy to de-escalate the crisis through dialogue and the threat of sanctions. On Tuesday, Scholz will fly to Moscow to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. Also Read | Ukraine crisis: EU preparing but unsure about Russia's next move The chancellor has ratcheted up engagement in the Ukraine crisis over the past week after critics accused him of lack of leadership and mixed signals in one of Europe's worst security crises in decades. "Germany stands right by your side," he said on Monday, underscoring that the country was Ukraine's biggest financial backer and announcing a new credit of 150 million euros ($170 million). Ukrainian officials have publicly criticized Germany for refusing to sell weapons to Kyiv - Berlin argues it cannot due to its bloody 20th century history - and over reluctance to pull the plug on a controversial Russian-German gas pipeline project. Ukraine as well as Western allies argue the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which is built but not yet operational, would enable Russia to cut Ukraine out of Europe's energy supply and make it more vulnerable to Russian invasion. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine will continue pursuing NATO membership goal, says Zelenskiy 

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

The European Union was working on various options to take depending upon how Ukraine crisis unfolds but did not know for sure what Moscow was going to do, said an official quoted by Reuters.

The official said that talks between US and Russia were "not yielding a lot &nbsp;but that dialogue with President Vladimir Putin was still open via the leaders of Germany and France.

The official, who spoke under condition of anonymity, said the harsher the EU sanctions against Russia would be in case of a military invasion, the biggest hit for the bloc should Moscow retaliate.

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.

Frantic diplomacy is on to prevent potential military conflict on European soil.

US national security advisor Jake Sullivan said "a major military action could begin by Russia in Ukraine any day now" while adding that it could start with "a significant barrage of missiles and bomb attacks and innocent civilians could be killed" even as both Germany and the United States threatened sanctions.

Several countries including Britain, Ireland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Japan, Israel, Saudi Arabia and UAE have asked their citizens to leave Ukraine even as Russia has recalled some of its diplomatic staff over what it called fears of "provocations".

The European Union was working on various options to take depending upon how Ukraine crisis unfolds but did not know for sure what Moscow was going to do, said an official quoted by Reuters.

The European Union was working on various options to take depending upon how Ukraine crisis unfolds but did not know for sure what Moscow was going to do, said an official quoted by Reuters. The official said that talks between US and Russia were "not yielding a lot but that dialogue with President Vladimir Putin was still open via the leaders of Germany and France. The official, who spoke under condition of anonymity, said the harsher the EU sanctions against Russia would be in case of a military invasion, the biggest hit for the bloc should Moscow retaliate. 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. Frantic diplomacy is on to prevent potential military conflict on European soil. US national security advisor Jake Sullivan said "a major military action could begin by Russia in Ukraine any day now" while adding that it could start with "a significant barrage of missiles and bomb attacks and innocent civilians could be killed" even as both Germany and the United States threatened sanctions. Several countries including Britain, Ireland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Japan, Israel, Saudi Arabia and UAE have asked their citizens to leave Ukraine even as Russia has recalled some of its diplomatic staff over what it called fears of "provocations".

Ukraine crisis: EU preparing but unsure about Russia's next move 

Russia's outspoken ambassador to Sweden Viktor Tatarintsev told a Swedish newspaper that Moscow "doesn't give a s***' about threat of Western sanctions over Ukraine crisis.

"Excuse my language, but we don't give a s*** about all their sanctions", Viktor Tatarintsev told the Aftonbladet newspaper in an interview posted on its website late Saturday.

"We have already had so many sanctions and in that sense they've had a positive effect on our economy and agriculture," said the veteran diplomat, who speaks fluent Swedish and has been posted to the Scandinavian country four times.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-will-respond-decisively-if-ukraine-invasion-occurs-biden-tells-putin-452818">West will respond decisively if Ukraine invasion occurs, Biden tells Putin</a>

"We are more self-sufficient and have been able to increase our exports. We have no Italian or Swiss cheeses, but we've learned to make just as good Russian cheeses using Italian and Swiss recipes", he said.

"New sanctions are nothing positive but not as bad as the West makes it sound", he added.

Tatarintsev accused the West of not understanding the Russian mentality.

"The more the West pushes Russia, the stronger the Russian response will be," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-there-be-a-war-over-ukraine-from-feb-16-story-so-far-of-russia-west-stand-off-452844">Will there be a war over Ukraine from Feb 16? Story so far of Russia-West stand-off &nbsp;</a>

The diplomat's comments come as Western nations fear Moscow is preparing an invasion of Ukraine, having nearly surrounded its western neighbour with more than 100,000 troops.

Washington has warned that an all-out invasion could begin "any day".

Tatarintsev insisted Moscow was trying to avoid a war.

"That is our political leadership's most sincere wish. The last thing people in Russia want is war."

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's outspoken ambassador to Sweden Viktor Tatarintsev told a Swedish newspaper that Moscow "doesn't give a s***' about threat of Western sanctions over Ukraine crisis.

Russia's outspoken ambassador to Sweden Viktor Tatarintsev told a Swedish newspaper that Moscow "doesn't give a s***' about threat of Western sanctions over Ukraine crisis. "Excuse my language, but we don't give a s*** about all their sanctions", Viktor Tatarintsev told the Aftonbladet newspaper in an interview posted on its website late Saturday. "We have already had so many sanctions and in that sense they've had a positive effect on our economy and agriculture," said the veteran diplomat, who speaks fluent Swedish and has been posted to the Scandinavian country four times. Also Read | West will respond decisively if Ukraine invasion occurs, Biden tells Putin "We are more self-sufficient and have been able to increase our exports. We have no Italian or Swiss cheeses, but we've learned to make just as good Russian cheeses using Italian and Swiss recipes", he said. "New sanctions are nothing positive but not as bad as the West makes it sound", he added. Tatarintsev accused the West of not understanding the Russian mentality. "The more the West pushes Russia, the stronger the Russian response will be," he said. Also Read | Will there be a war over Ukraine from Feb 16? Story so far of Russia-West stand-off The diplomat's comments come as Western nations fear Moscow is preparing an invasion of Ukraine, having nearly surrounded its western neighbour with more than 100,000 troops. Washington has warned that an all-out invasion could begin "any day". Tatarintsev insisted Moscow was trying to avoid a war. "That is our political leadership's most sincere wish. The last thing people in Russia want is war." (With inputs from agencies)

Russia does not give 's***' about Western sanctions, says its ambassador to Sweden

The United States said on Sunday that path of diplomacy is still open to resolve&nbsp;Ukraine Crisis. However, it underlined that the risk of Russian invasion was high enough. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was speaking in Hawaii after talks with Japanese and South Korean counterparts. &nbsp;

Russia continues to maintain troop presence of more than 100,000 soldiers near Ukraine. It has also increased its naval movements in the Black Sea. Russia denies plans of invading Ukraine but statements from within the Russian camp are taken to be attempts at creating a pretext for invasion.

Germany Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday but a German source said Berlin did not expect "concrete results" from those talks.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-does-not-give-s-about-western-sanctions-says-ambassador-452949">Russia does not give 's***' about Western sanctions, says ambassador</a>

Scholz would make clear the West was united and any aggression would prompt "painful, considerable sanctions" on Russia, the source said.

"The diplomatic path remains open. The way for Moscow to show that it wants to pursue that path is simple. It should de-escalate, rather than escalate," Blinken said after his meetings in the US Pacific archipelago of Hawaii.

In an hour-long call on Saturday, US&nbsp;President Joe Biden told Putin that the West would respond decisively to any invasion of Ukraine, adding such a step would produce widespread suffering and isolate Moscow.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ukraine-crisis-russian-submarine-sails-to-black-sea-453001">Amid Ukraine crisis, Russian submarine sails to Black Sea</a>

A senior Biden administration official said the call was substantive but that there was no fundamental change.

The Kremlin said Putin told Biden that Washington had failed to take Russia's main concerns into account and it had received no "substantial answer" on key elements of its security demands.

Putin wants guarantees from the United States and NATO that include blocking Ukraine's entry into NATO, refraining from missile deployments near Russia's borders and scaling back NATO's military infrastructure in Europe to 1997 levels.

Washington regards many of the proposals as non-starters but has pushed the Kremlin to discuss them jointly with Washington and its European allies.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States said on Sunday that path of diplomacy is still open to resolve Ukraine Crisis. However, it underlined that the risk of Russian invasion was high enough.

The United States said on Sunday that path of diplomacy is still open to resolve Ukraine Crisis. However, it underlined that the risk of Russian invasion was high enough. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was speaking in Hawaii after talks with Japanese and South Korean counterparts. Russia continues to maintain troop presence of more than 100,000 soldiers near Ukraine. It has also increased its naval movements in the Black Sea. Russia denies plans of invading Ukraine but statements from within the Russian camp are taken to be attempts at creating a pretext for invasion. Germany Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday but a German source said Berlin did not expect "concrete results" from those talks. Also Read | Russia does not give 's***' about Western sanctions, says ambassador Scholz would make clear the West was united and any aggression would prompt "painful, considerable sanctions" on Russia, the source said. "The diplomatic path remains open. The way for Moscow to show that it wants to pursue that path is simple. It should de-escalate, rather than escalate," Blinken said after his meetings in the US Pacific archipelago of Hawaii. In an hour-long call on Saturday, US President Joe Biden told Putin that the West would respond decisively to any invasion of Ukraine, adding such a step would produce widespread suffering and isolate Moscow. Also Read | Amid Ukraine crisis, Russian submarine sails to Black Sea A senior Biden administration official said the call was substantive but that there was no fundamental change. The Kremlin said Putin told Biden that Washington had failed to take Russia's main concerns into account and it had received no "substantial answer" on key elements of its security demands. Putin wants guarantees from the United States and NATO that include blocking Ukraine's entry into NATO, refraining from missile deployments near Russia's borders and scaling back NATO's military infrastructure in Europe to 1997 levels. Washington regards many of the proposals as non-starters but has pushed the Kremlin to discuss them jointly with Washington and its European allies. (With inputs from agencies)

Path of diplomacy still open to resolve Ukraine crisis: US

Amid heightened tensions in Europe over the Ukraine crisis, a Russian submarine passed through Turkey's Bosphorus strait on Sunday (February 13) to sail to Black Sea. Six Russian naval landing ships have already sailed through the strait to Black Sea last week.

The submarine on Sunday was a Kilo-class submarine Rosotv-on-Don.

More than 30 ships from the Russian Black Sea fleet have started training exercises near the Crimea peninsula as part of wider navy drills, RIA news agency reported citing the fleet.

The naval movements have been taking place even as more than 100,000 Russian troops remain stationed along Russia-Ukraine border. US President Joe Biden has already said that the invasion may take place on February 16.

Many countries have begun asking their diplomats in Ukraine to return home in light of the rising tensions. Russia faces immense pressure from the Western countries who have warned of sanctions as well as military action if Russia chooses to invade Ukraine.

Russia announced last month its navy would stage a sweeping set of exercises involving all its fleets this month and next, from the Pacific to the Atlantic, the latest show of strength in a surge of military activity during the standoff with the West.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid heightened tensions in Europe over the Ukraine crisis, a Russian submarine passed through Turkey's Bosphorus strait on Sunday (February 13) to sail to Black Sea.

Amid heightened tensions in Europe over the Ukraine crisis, a Russian submarine passed through Turkey's Bosphorus strait on Sunday (February 13) to sail to Black Sea. Six Russian naval landing ships have already sailed through the strait to Black Sea last week. The submarine on Sunday was a Kilo-class submarine Rosotv-on-Don. More than 30 ships from the Russian Black Sea fleet have started training exercises near the Crimea peninsula as part of wider navy drills, RIA news agency reported citing the fleet. The naval movements have been taking place even as more than 100,000 Russian troops remain stationed along Russia-Ukraine border. US President Joe Biden has already said that the invasion may take place on February 16. Many countries have begun asking their diplomats in Ukraine to return home in light of the rising tensions. Russia faces immense pressure from the Western countries who have warned of sanctions as well as military action if Russia chooses to invade Ukraine. Russia announced last month its navy would stage a sweeping set of exercises involving all its fleets this month and next, from the Pacific to the Atlantic, the latest show of strength in a surge of military activity during the standoff with the West. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid Ukraine crisis, Russian submarine sails to Black Sea

How can the Ukraine crisis end? Can diplomacy defuse tensions without military conflict? As multiple rounds of talks fail to yield any result, WION's Alyson Le Grange and Palki Sharma discuss what lies ahead in the Ukraine-Russia conflict.

Russia-Ukraine Border Tensions: Can diplomacy defuse tensions without military conflict?

The Kremlin on Friday cited a geographical gaffe by British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss as an example of how poorly informed Western leaders were about the subject matter in the East-West standoff over Ukraine.

Britain dismissed the comments as propaganda and said Truss had simply misheard Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov during a meeting.

"This is the reality in which we have to defend our position," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a briefing.

Russia's Kommersant newspaper quoted two diplomatic sources as saying that during their closed-door meeting on Thursday Lavrov had asked Truss if she recognised Russian sovereignty over Rostov and Voronezh - two regions in the south of the country where Russia has been building up its forces.

Kommersant said Truss replied that Britain would never recognise them as Russian, and had to be corrected by her ambassador.

Britain does not dispute the sovereignty of the regions in question. A British source said Truss had misheard during the meeting, and rejected Peskov's characterisation of the West's understanding of the conflict.

"It's total rubbish and classic Russian propaganda," the source said.

The Kremlin on Friday cited a geographical gaffe by British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss as an example of how poorly informed Western leaders were about the subject matter in the East-West standoff over Ukraine.

The Kremlin on Friday cited a geographical gaffe by British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss as an example of how poorly informed Western leaders were about the subject matter in the East-West standoff over Ukraine. Britain dismissed the comments as propaganda and said Truss had simply misheard Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov during a meeting. "This is the reality in which we have to defend our position," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a briefing. Russia's Kommersant newspaper quoted two diplomatic sources as saying that during their closed-door meeting on Thursday Lavrov had asked Truss if she recognised Russian sovereignty over Rostov and Voronezh - two regions in the south of the country where Russia has been building up its forces. Kommersant said Truss replied that Britain would never recognise them as Russian, and had to be corrected by her ambassador. Britain does not dispute the sovereignty of the regions in question. A British source said Truss had misheard during the meeting, and rejected Peskov's characterisation of the West's understanding of the conflict. "It's total rubbish and classic Russian propaganda," the source said.

Kremlin mocks Truss' geography 'gaffe', says West doesn't understand Ukraine crisis

ukraine-crisis

Ukraine Crisis, News on Ukraine Crisis, stories on Ukraine Crisis, articles on Ukraine Crisis, Ukraine Crisis stories at Wion, Ukraine Crisis news, Ukraine Crisis latest news

ukraine crisis

Putin may consider recognising independence of Ukraine's breakaway regions

US warns: Russia readying list of Ukrainian targets

Ukraine crisis: Family members of Indian diplomats asked to return to India

Why Ukraine matters: What to know about the crisis with Russia

Gravitas: Ukraine Crisis: Is Moscow manufacturing a pretext for an invasion?

Ukraine crisis: Russia ‘welcomes’ India’s ‘principled and independent’ approach at UN

After 30 years of peace, Ukraine crisis shakes Europeans

Germany accuses Russia of cold war demands before Munich security conference

Germany accuses Russia of cold war demands before Munich security conference

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Shelling by Russia-backed separatists in Donbass hits nursery school

US and NATO unimpressed with Russia's troop pullback claim

Russia announces end of military drills in Crimea

Russia could attack on Ukraine in 'next several days', says US President Joe Biden

Ukraine calls for UNSC to discuss Donbass

How a Ukraine conflict could reshape Europe’s reliance on Russia

Ukraine crisis: Government planning more flights to bring back Indians; helpline setup

Russia skips OSCE meeting on Ukraine crisis

Why Ukraine is a testbed for big power contestation

EU plans emergency summit over Ukraine crisis

India issues travel advisory for citizens, students in Ukraine as tensions rise

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

Ukraine crisis: Belarus envoy asserts country's position, says don’t want war in eastern Europe

Hour-long Biden-Putin talks yield no breakthrough on Ukraine crisis

Ukraine will continue pursuing NATO membership goal, says Zelenskiy

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

Ukraine crisis: EU preparing but unsure about Russia's next move