United States has rejected Russia's demands. Moscow is responding by stepping up its deployments along the Ukraine border. More troops and military equipment are being deployed. Palki Sharma brings you the latest.

Gravitas: Ukraine crisis: United States rejects Russia's demands

Tensions on the Russia-Ukraine border continue to simmer. The united west has now threatened to impose never seen before sanctions on Moscow if Russia were to carry out an invasion into Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine tensions: What are the possible sanctions on Moscow?

Russia said today the United States and NATO had overlooked its concern over the security draft agreement submitted to it earlier amid tensions with Ukraine along the border.

Russia's foreign ministry spokesman Zaitsev said, "We have already repeatedly stated that our country does not intend to attack anyone," even as reports indicated Russia has massed over 100,000 troops along the Ukraine border.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov added that the country's "thoughts" have not been taken into account over the security agreement as the Biden administration rejected Russia's demand that former Soviet countries should not be inducted into NATO referring to Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-dagger-on-ukraine-kinzhal-hypersonic-missiles-can-degrade-high-value-targets-447431">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia's 'Dagger' on Ukraine: Kinzhal hypersonic missiles can degrade high value targets</a>

"We cannot say that our thoughts have been taken into account or that a willingness has been shown to take our concerns into account," Kremlin said.

"Let's not rush into assessments; it takes time to analyse," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov added.

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine, Russia crisis: Which side will India lean?

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Meanwhile, Germany and US warned that the gas pipeline which could double Russian natural gas supply to Germany could be in danger of not being implemented if Putin's regime attacked Ukraine.

"If Russia invades Ukraine, one way or another, Nord Stream 2 will not move forward, "Victoria Nuland, US undersecretary of state for political affairs said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-russia-has-parked-iskander-m-missile-system-along-ukraine-448119">Also Read:&nbsp;Why Russia has parked Iskander-M missile system along Ukraine?</a>

The new German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to meet President Joe Biden next month to discuss the Ukraine crisis even as the US president spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensk to step up economic support to the nation.

NATO has put 8,500 troops on alert amid tensions at the border. However, Russia has maintained it has the right to move troops anywhere inside its borders even as it has rejected claims of an imminent invasion.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Russia said today the United States and NATO had overlooked its concern over the security draft agreement submitted to it earlier amid tensions with Ukraine along the border.

Russia said today the United States and NATO had overlooked its concern over the security draft agreement submitted to it earlier amid tensions with Ukraine along the border. Russia's foreign ministry spokesman Zaitsev said, "We have already repeatedly stated that our country does not intend to attack anyone," even as reports indicated Russia has massed over 100,000 troops along the Ukraine border. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov added that the country's "thoughts" have not been taken into account over the security agreement as the Biden administration rejected Russia's demand that former Soviet countries should not be inducted into NATO referring to Ukraine. Also Read in Pics: Russia's 'Dagger' on Ukraine: Kinzhal hypersonic missiles can degrade high value targets "We cannot say that our thoughts have been taken into account or that a willingness has been shown to take our concerns into account," Kremlin said. "Let's not rush into assessments; it takes time to analyse," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov added. Watch: Ukraine, Russia crisis: Which side will India lean? Meanwhile, Germany and US warned that the gas pipeline which could double Russian natural gas supply to Germany could be in danger of not being implemented if Putin's regime attacked Ukraine. "If Russia invades Ukraine, one way or another, Nord Stream 2 will not move forward, "Victoria Nuland, US undersecretary of state for political affairs said. Also Read: Why Russia has parked Iskander-M missile system along Ukraine? The new German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to meet President Joe Biden next month to discuss the Ukraine crisis even as the US president spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensk to step up economic support to the nation. NATO has put 8,500 troops on alert amid tensions at the border. However, Russia has maintained it has the right to move troops anywhere inside its borders even as it has rejected claims of an imminent invasion. (With inputs from Agencies)

If Russia invades Ukraine, Nord Stream 2 pipeline will not move forward: US

Officials from Russia and Ukraine met in Paris to diffuse tension. The United States is now busy issuing fresh warnings over invasion threats.

US answers to Russia's security demands as tensions mount over Ukraine

The latest round of talks between France, Germany, Russia and Ukraine was held in Paris over the Ukraine crisis. The meeting was held as a four-way discussion between the so-called 'Normandy group'.

Normandy Talks: Parties agree to truce in East Ukraine

In the face of a possible Russian invasion, Germany has refused to provide weapons to Ukraine. It has instead offered to send 5,000 helmets.

Germany offers to send 5,000 helmets instead of weapons to Ukraine amid possible Russian invasion

US embassy in Kyiv issues stark warning as Russia begins multiple Military exercises near Ukraine

As tensions on the Russia-Ukraine border continues to simmer, the United West has threatened to impose never seen before sanctions on Moscow if Russia invades Ukraine.

Impact of possible sanctions on Moscow

The global energy market is under pressure amid rising political tensions between Russia and Ukraine. For the first time in seven years, oil prices touched ninety dollar dollars a barrel after surpassing ninety dollars for the first time since October 2014.

Oil prices touch $90 a barrel for the first time in 7 years amid Russia-Ukraine conflict

Despite the rising tensions with Russia, Kyiv residents remain peaceful as Cafes and shops continue with daily footfall.

Ukraine: Kyiv residents remain peaceful even as tensions with Russia soar

Amid ongoing controversies over lockdown parties, UK PM Boris Johnson bats for the country to focus on the Ukraine crisis instead.

PM Boris Johnson: UK should focus on Ukraine crisis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of building up troop presence on Ukraine's borders, while the US has warned Moscow against "intimidating" Ukraine.

Zelensky has described these as a regular interference by Russia. "Muscle-flexing in the form of military exercises and possible provocations along the border are traditional Russian games," he said in a statement.

He also accused the Vladimir Putin-led country of creating a "threatening atmosphere" while Ukraine is aiming to resume a ceasefire that was brokered last year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannot-ape-putin-explains-why-he-chose-to-get-vaccinated-in-private-373949">'Cannot ape': Putin explains why he chose to get vaccinated in private</a>

Kremlin, however, has denied reports and has claimed Russia is 'not threatening' Ukraine.&nbsp;

"No doubt such a scenario would lead to a further increase in tensions close to Russia's borders. Of course, this would call for additional measures from the Russian side to ensure its security,"&nbsp;Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told media.

The Kremlin has also warned that Russia will take&nbsp;'measures' if Western troops are sent to Ukraine. Meanwhile, the US State Department has warned Russia against massing troops on the border.

The department said it is "absolutely concerned by recent escalations of Russian aggressive and provocative actions in eastern&nbsp;Ukraine."

"What we would object to are aggressive actions that have an&nbsp;intent of intimidating, of threatening, our partner&nbsp;Ukraine."

Experts believe the buildup on the border is Russia’s technique to put the newly-elected Joe Biden’s administration to test after the US president labelled Putin as a "killer”."

There has been a rise in violence between Ukraine’s government forces and Kremlin-backed separatists.

As of now, Zelensky said, 20 Ukrainian servicemen had been killed and 57 wounded since the start of the year.

The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of building up troop presence on Ukraine's borders, while the US has warned Moscow against "intimidating" Ukraine.

The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of building up troop presence on Ukraine's borders, while the US has warned Moscow against "intimidating" Ukraine. Zelensky has described these as a regular interference by Russia. "Muscle-flexing in the form of military exercises and possible provocations along the border are traditional Russian games," he said in a statement. He also accused the Vladimir Putin-led country of creating a "threatening atmosphere" while Ukraine is aiming to resume a ceasefire that was brokered last year. Also read | 'Cannot ape': Putin explains why he chose to get vaccinated in private Kremlin, however, has denied reports and has claimed Russia is 'not threatening' Ukraine. "No doubt such a scenario would lead to a further increase in tensions close to Russia's borders. Of course, this would call for additional measures from the Russian side to ensure its security," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told media. The Kremlin has also warned that Russia will take 'measures' if Western troops are sent to Ukraine. Meanwhile, the US State Department has warned Russia against massing troops on the border. The department said it is "absolutely concerned by recent escalations of Russian aggressive and provocative actions in eastern Ukraine." "What we would object to are aggressive actions that have an intent of intimidating, of threatening, our partner Ukraine." Experts believe the buildup on the border is Russia’s technique to put the newly-elected Joe Biden’s administration to test after the US president labelled Putin as a "killer”." There has been a rise in violence between Ukraine’s government forces and Kremlin-backed separatists. As of now, Zelensky said, 20 Ukrainian servicemen had been killed and 57 wounded since the start of the year.

Ukraine accuses Russia of massing troops on border; Moscow warns 'measures'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday was travelling to Ukraine's eastern frontline. His visit came after increased clashes with separatist forces and tension with Russia.

In recent weeks, fighting between Ukrainian army and separatists has intensified. This has raised fears of a major escalation in conflict over the majority Russian-speaking Donbas region.

On Thursday, Ukraine military said that another of its soldiers had been killed. 25 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed. In the whole of 2020, fifty Ukrainian soldiers were killed.

Zelensky, who has appealed to Ukraine's Western allies for support, was due to visit positions where a ceasefire "has been systematically violated in recent days" and Ukrainian soldiers killed or wounded, the presidency said in a statement.

"I want to be with our soldiers in the tough times in Donbas," Zelensky said. "Going to the locations of the escalation.... Ukraine needs peace and will do everything for this."

Fighting in the conflict, which erupted after Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, subsided last year as a new ceasefire agreement took hold.

But clashes, mainly involving artillery and mortar fire, have picked up again since the start of the year, with both sides blaming each other.

Last week, Ukraine also accused Russia of bringing thousands of military personnel on northern, eastern borders in addition to on Crimean peninsula.

The separatists are widely seen as having Russia's political and military backing, which Moscow denies.

(With AFP inputs)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday was travelling to Ukraine's eastern frontline. His visit came after increased clashes with separatist forces and tension with Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday was travelling to Ukraine's eastern frontline. His visit came after increased clashes with separatist forces and tension with Russia. In recent weeks, fighting between Ukrainian army and separatists has intensified. This has raised fears of a major escalation in conflict over the majority Russian-speaking Donbas region. On Thursday, Ukraine military said that another of its soldiers had been killed. 25 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed. In the whole of 2020, fifty Ukrainian soldiers were killed. Zelensky, who has appealed to Ukraine's Western allies for support, was due to visit positions where a ceasefire "has been systematically violated in recent days" and Ukrainian soldiers killed or wounded, the presidency said in a statement. "I want to be with our soldiers in the tough times in Donbas," Zelensky said. "Going to the locations of the escalation.... Ukraine needs peace and will do everything for this." Fighting in the conflict, which erupted after Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, subsided last year as a new ceasefire agreement took hold. But clashes, mainly involving artillery and mortar fire, have picked up again since the start of the year, with both sides blaming each other. Last week, Ukraine also accused Russia of bringing thousands of military personnel on northern, eastern borders in addition to on Crimean peninsula. The separatists are widely seen as having Russia's political and military backing, which Moscow denies. (With AFP inputs)

Ukraine president to visit frontline amid tensions with Russia

Tensions between Russia and Ukraine remain at all time high with military build-up reported across the border.

With international pressure mounting on Russia to withdraw troops, a Ukrainian diplomat has recently suggested&nbsp;that the country may be compelled to acquire nuclear weapons to protect their interests. Currently, Ukraine is attempting to get membership of NATO amid tensions with Russia.

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Ukraine’s Ambassador to Germany Andriy Melnyk told a state radio station on Thursday that Ukrainian President Zelensky is considering all options as fears of a full-fledged conflict rise in the region.

Melnyk was quoted by German news agency DPA as saying that either they should be given the membership of NATO “to strengthen this Europe” or they’ll be left with one option - “to rearm” themselves.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ukraines-zelenskiy-to-hold-talks-with-merkel-macron-about-russia-standoff-377859" hreflang="en">Ukraine's Zelenskiy to hold talks with Merkel, Macron about Russia standoff</a>

In the recent weeks, fighting has intensified in Ukraine’s Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Russian-backed separatists seized a sizeable territory in April 2014 and fighting has been going on since then. In the recent weeks, Russia has increased its troops and artillery near the border.

In 2014, Russia had annexed the region of Crimea from Ukraine, where it has stationed troops again.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ease-ukraines-provocative-actions-russia-urges-macron-and-merkel-377977" hreflang="en">Ease Ukraine's 'provocative actions', Russia urges Macron and Merkel</a>

Ukraine's foreign minister said earlier this week that Russia was "openly threatening Ukraine with war" and vowed a coordinated military response with its allies to aggression orchestrated by Moscow.

The fresh bout of clashes in eastern Ukraine effectively ended a ceasefire agreed last July that ushered in a period of relative calm to the conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tensions between Russia and Ukraine remain at all time high with military build-up reported across the border. With international pressure mounting on Russia to withdraw troops, a Ukrainian diplomat has recently suggested that the country may be compelled to acquire nuclear weapons to protect their interests.

Tensions between Russia and Ukraine remain at all time high with military build-up reported across the border. With international pressure mounting on Russia to withdraw troops, a Ukrainian diplomat has recently suggested that the country may be compelled to acquire nuclear weapons to protect their interests. Currently, Ukraine is attempting to get membership of NATO amid tensions with Russia. Ukraine’s Ambassador to Germany Andriy Melnyk told a state radio station on Thursday that Ukrainian President Zelensky is considering all options as fears of a full-fledged conflict rise in the region. Melnyk was quoted by German news agency DPA as saying that either they should be given the membership of NATO “to strengthen this Europe” or they’ll be left with one option - “to rearm” themselves. Also read: Ukraine's Zelenskiy to hold talks with Merkel, Macron about Russia standoff In the recent weeks, fighting has intensified in Ukraine’s Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Russian-backed separatists seized a sizeable territory in April 2014 and fighting has been going on since then. In the recent weeks, Russia has increased its troops and artillery near the border. In 2014, Russia had annexed the region of Crimea from Ukraine, where it has stationed troops again. Also read: Ease Ukraine's 'provocative actions', Russia urges Macron and Merkel Ukraine's foreign minister said earlier this week that Russia was "openly threatening Ukraine with war" and vowed a coordinated military response with its allies to aggression orchestrated by Moscow. The fresh bout of clashes in eastern Ukraine effectively ended a ceasefire agreed last July that ushered in a period of relative calm to the conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine may acquire nuclear weapons amid conflict with Russia, diplomat suggests

There is a "low to medium" risk that Russia will invade Ukraine over the next few weeks, the top U.S. general in Europe said on Thursday, in the first such military assessment amid mounting concern about Russian troop movements toward Ukraine's borders.

Air Force General Tod Wolters declined to explain the intelligence driving his assessment, which does not suggest that the U.S. military expects a Russian invasion at this point, but he is not ruling one out or playing down the risk.

But, in testimony before a House of Representatives committee he later suggested his view about the risks in the coming weeks and months was at least partly based on the disposition of Russian forces.

The Pentagon has declined to detail its assessment on the size and composition of those troops, referring reporters to Moscow. However, the White House disclosed last week that Russia had more troops on Ukraine's eastern border than at any time since 2014, when it annexed Crimea and backed separatist territory seizures.

Asked by a lawmaker on the Armed Services Committee to estimate the chances of an invasion in the next few weeks, Wolters said: "Low to medium."

Pressed by another lawmaker to explain whether that risk would change after that period, Wolters kept his cards close, saying: "The answer is, it depends."

"And I would have to take each and every second of the day from this point till tomorrow to give you a different answer," said Wolters, who is both head of the U.S. military's European Command and is NATO's supreme allied commander Europe.

If the current trajectory stayed the same, however, Wolters estimated the risk of an invasion could decrease.

"My sense is, with the trend that I see right now, that the likelihood of an occurrence will start to wane," he told Congress members.

Ukraine and Russia have traded blame over a spike in violence in the conflict in eastern Ukraine, where Ukrainian troops have battled Russian-backed separatist forces in a conflict that Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people since 2014.

Tensions over a buildup of Russian troops on Ukraine's eastern border have pushed up the cost of raising domestic debt and prompted the government to accelerate efforts to secure more International Monetary Fund loans, an adviser to Ukraine's president told Reuters on Thursday.

The United States sought to impose costs on Russia on Thursday by imposing a broad array of sanctions, including curbs to its sovereign debt market, to punish it for interfering in last year's U.S. presidential election, cyber-hacking, bullying Ukraine and other alleged "malign" actions.

Laura Cooper, deputy assistant secretary of defense for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia, pointed to the sanctions and described the conflict in eastern Ukraine as "a hot war right now."

"Since January, we've already had 30 Ukrainian service members killed in the east," Cooper testified, speaking alongside Wolters.

Still, both Cooper and Walters did not request additional authorities to support Ukrainian forces, which started receiving anti-tank weapons and other weaponry in recent years from Washington.

"I think we have the right authorities and we have been able to provide the right lethal assistance, again, both on the land domain and the maritime domain at this point," Cooper said.

There is a "low to medium" risk that Russia will invade Ukraine over the next few weeks, the top U.S. general in Europe said on Thursday, in the first such military assessment amid mounting concern about Russian troop movements toward Ukraine's borders.

There is a "low to medium" risk that Russia will invade Ukraine over the next few weeks, the top U.S. general in Europe said on Thursday, in the first such military assessment amid mounting concern about Russian troop movements toward Ukraine's borders. Air Force General Tod Wolters declined to explain the intelligence driving his assessment, which does not suggest that the U.S. military expects a Russian invasion at this point, but he is not ruling one out or playing down the risk. But, in testimony before a House of Representatives committee he later suggested his view about the risks in the coming weeks and months was at least partly based on the disposition of Russian forces. The Pentagon has declined to detail its assessment on the size and composition of those troops, referring reporters to Moscow. However, the White House disclosed last week that Russia had more troops on Ukraine's eastern border than at any time since 2014, when it annexed Crimea and backed separatist territory seizures. Asked by a lawmaker on the Armed Services Committee to estimate the chances of an invasion in the next few weeks, Wolters said: "Low to medium." Pressed by another lawmaker to explain whether that risk would change after that period, Wolters kept his cards close, saying: "The answer is, it depends." "And I would have to take each and every second of the day from this point till tomorrow to give you a different answer," said Wolters, who is both head of the U.S. military's European Command and is NATO's supreme allied commander Europe. If the current trajectory stayed the same, however, Wolters estimated the risk of an invasion could decrease. "My sense is, with the trend that I see right now, that the likelihood of an occurrence will start to wane," he told Congress members. Ukraine and Russia have traded blame over a spike in violence in the conflict in eastern Ukraine, where Ukrainian troops have battled Russian-backed separatist forces in a conflict that Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people since 2014. Tensions over a buildup of Russian troops on Ukraine's eastern border have pushed up the cost of raising domestic debt and prompted the government to accelerate efforts to secure more International Monetary Fund loans, an adviser to Ukraine's president told Reuters on Thursday. The United States sought to impose costs on Russia on Thursday by imposing a broad array of sanctions, including curbs to its sovereign debt market, to punish it for interfering in last year's U.S. presidential election, cyber-hacking, bullying Ukraine and other alleged "malign" actions. Laura Cooper, deputy assistant secretary of defense for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia, pointed to the sanctions and described the conflict in eastern Ukraine as "a hot war right now." "Since January, we've already had 30 Ukrainian service members killed in the east," Cooper testified, speaking alongside Wolters. Still, both Cooper and Walters did not request additional authorities to support Ukrainian forces, which started receiving anti-tank weapons and other weaponry in recent years from Washington. "I think we have the right authorities and we have been able to provide the right lethal assistance, again, both on the land domain and the maritime domain at this point," Cooper said.

Low to medium risk of Russian invasion of Ukraine in next few weeks: US general

A massive troop buildup and two major nuclear powers on either side, a&nbsp;lot can go wrong.

So, Joe Biden dispatched his top cabinet members to Europe, America's defence and foreign secretaries.&nbsp;

They are talking to European leaders, holding meetings with the Ukrainians and increasing their military presence in Germany. Will this be enough to ensure a Russian troop withdrawal? &nbsp;

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Soldiers are at the border, Sukhois in the air and the navy in the Black Sea. Russia's buildup near Ukraine has alarmed the West. America says all this can't be just a training exercise and Europe is equally worried. They fear a serious escalation at the Ukrainian border. The Ukrainian Foreign Minister is meeting NATO officials. Biden's top diplomats have landed in Europe. Lloyd Austin and Antony Blinken are holding talks in Brussels, the US secretary of state met with his Ukrainian counterpart and reaffirmed America's support to Ukraine. &nbsp;

The US secretary of defence was in Berlin and met his German counterpart. Austin announced that America will increase its military presence in Germany by 500 soldiers. The US has also called off the withdrawal of 12,000 soldiers from Germany. It's a reversal of former president Donald Trump's plans. &nbsp;

Russia is watching the shift. It could have implications for a major energy project, the Nord Stream 2. It's a gas pipeline from Russia to Germany. The Biden administration isn't happy about it. Republicans in the US are demanding sanctions against German companies. What will President Biden do?&nbsp;

Look the other way, for the moment. Russia is raising the spectre of war against Ukraine. Now&nbsp;is not the time to sanction Germany. The United States and NATO are speaking in one voice. America sees Russia's moves as an opportunity to repair ties with Europe. It's an alliance that was battered under Trump. In his four years as president, Trump pulled out of the Iran nuclear deal, slapped tariffs on goods from the European Union and repeatedly questioned NATO members over their contributions to the alliance. &nbsp;

At the same time, Moscow cultivated bilateral ties with key European powers, the Ukrainian misadventure may change the European chessboard. &nbsp;

A massive troop buildup and two major nuclear powers on either side, a lot can go wrong. So, Joe Biden dispatched his top cabinet members to Europe, America's defence and foreign secretaries.

A massive troop buildup and two major nuclear powers on either side, a lot can go wrong. So, Joe Biden dispatched his top cabinet members to Europe, America's defence and foreign secretaries. They are talking to European leaders, holding meetings with the Ukrainians and increasing their military presence in Germany. Will this be enough to ensure a Russian troop withdrawal? Soldiers are at the border, Sukhois in the air and the navy in the Black Sea. Russia's buildup near Ukraine has alarmed the West. America says all this can't be just a training exercise and Europe is equally worried. They fear a serious escalation at the Ukrainian border. The Ukrainian Foreign Minister is meeting NATO officials. Biden's top diplomats have landed in Europe. Lloyd Austin and Antony Blinken are holding talks in Brussels, the US secretary of state met with his Ukrainian counterpart and reaffirmed America's support to Ukraine. The US secretary of defence was in Berlin and met his German counterpart. Austin announced that America will increase its military presence in Germany by 500 soldiers. The US has also called off the withdrawal of 12,000 soldiers from Germany. It's a reversal of former president Donald Trump's plans. Russia is watching the shift. It could have implications for a major energy project, the Nord Stream 2. It's a gas pipeline from Russia to Germany. The Biden administration isn't happy about it. Republicans in the US are demanding sanctions against German companies. What will President Biden do? Look the other way, for the moment. Russia is raising the spectre of war against Ukraine. Now is not the time to sanction Germany. The United States and NATO are speaking in one voice. America sees Russia's moves as an opportunity to repair ties with Europe. It's an alliance that was battered under Trump. In his four years as president, Trump pulled out of the Iran nuclear deal, slapped tariffs on goods from the European Union and repeatedly questioned NATO members over their contributions to the alliance. At the same time, Moscow cultivated bilateral ties with key European powers, the Ukrainian misadventure may change the European chessboard.

With Russia at Ukraine door, US and EU look for options 

Normandy format talks held in Paris to diffuse tensions over Ukraine

The US&nbsp;administration on Monday declined to rule out sending American troops to Ukraine as new satellite images revealed Russian forces assembling at numerous critical strategic areas along the Ukrainian border in preparation for an invasion.

In a warning to Moscow on the eve of talks between presidents Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin, the US indicated it would impose tough new economic sanctions in reaction to a Russian invasion of Ukraine.

According to a senior US official, Biden will also make it clear to Putin that the US would not rule out eventual Ukrainian membership in Nato, as the Russian leader has asked. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Also Read:&nbsp;What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?</a>

The images show ground military equipment being deployed as well as personnel buildup in western Russia and Crimea.

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Just hours after the photos were posted, White House press secretary Jen Psaki was asked if Americans should be prepared for US military on the ground if Russia decided to invade.

"I’m not going to get ahead of the President’s conversations with our transatlantic partners, which is going to happen later this afternoon," Psaki responded, "and we’ll provide you a list of who will be participating in that call as soon as the scheduling details are finalized.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-planning-to-invade-ukraine-with-175000-troops-report-434188">Also read | Russia planning to invade Ukraine with 175,000 troops: Report</a>

But I would say that our objective here is to convey diplomatically that this is the moment for Russia to pull back its military buildup at the border, "Psaki added.

The United States and European allies are prepared to take "substantial economic countermeasures ... that would impose significant and severe economic harm on the Russian economy" if Russia attacks, the official said.

In addition, Biden will make clear that if Putin "moved in, there would be an increasing request from eastern flank allies and a positive response from the United States for additional forces and capabilities and exercises," they said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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

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

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

Speaking about NATO and Ukraine's relationship, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has rejected Russia's call asking the West to withdraw its invitation to Ukraine to join the alliance.&nbsp;

At a joint news conference with Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Stoltenberg said, "NATO's relationship with Ukraine is going to be decided by the 30 NATO allies and Ukraine, no one else. We cannot accept that Russia is trying to re-establish a system where big powers like Russia have spheres of influence, where they can control or decide what other members can do."

Russia has been trying to create fears of a possible invasion as it&nbsp;has increased the number of troops near Ukraine's border.

Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry had said that NATO should do away with a 2008 declaration that opens door to Georgia and Ukraine. In a statement, it said, "In the fundamental interests of European security, it is necessary to officially disavow the decision of the 2008 NATO Bucharest summit that 'Ukraine and Georgia will become NATO members."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-tensions-biden-talks-to-germanys-scholz-as-kyiv-leader-looks-for-talks-with-moscow-435971">Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine-Russia tensions: Biden talks to Germany's Scholz as Kyiv leader looks for talks with Moscow</a>

The tensions between Ukraine and Russia have been rising unabated. In the past few weeks, Russia has moved around 100,000 troops to Ukraine's border.&nbsp;

As a response, US President Joe Biden recently claimed that he has warned his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, that Moscow will be facing economic sanctions if Ukraine is attacked by his forces.

He claimed that he has made it very clear that Russia will be facing economic sanctions ‘like never before’ if Russian forces launch an attack on Ukraine.&nbsp;

"I made it very clear if in fact he invades Ukraine there will be severe consequences, severe consequences — economic consequences like none he's ever seen or ever have been seen," Biden told reporters at the White House.

However, Russia says that the troops are marching towards the border as a defensive measure.

&nbsp;"Russia has a peaceful foreign policy, but has the right to defend its security," Putin said at a news conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.&nbsp;

"We cannot but be concerned about the prospect of Ukraine's possible admission to NATO, because this will undoubtedly be followed by the deployment of appropriate military contingents, bases and weapons that threaten us," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Speaking about NATO and Ukraine's relationship, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has rejected Russia's call asking the West to withdraw its invitation to Ukraine to join the alliance.

Speaking about NATO and Ukraine's relationship, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has rejected Russia's call asking the West to withdraw its invitation to Ukraine to join the alliance. At a joint news conference with Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Stoltenberg said, "NATO's relationship with Ukraine is going to be decided by the 30 NATO allies and Ukraine, no one else. We cannot accept that Russia is trying to re-establish a system where big powers like Russia have spheres of influence, where they can control or decide what other members can do." Russia has been trying to create fears of a possible invasion as it has increased the number of troops near Ukraine's border. Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry had said that NATO should do away with a 2008 declaration that opens door to Georgia and Ukraine. In a statement, it said, "In the fundamental interests of European security, it is necessary to officially disavow the decision of the 2008 NATO Bucharest summit that 'Ukraine and Georgia will become NATO members." Also read | Ukraine-Russia tensions: Biden talks to Germany's Scholz as Kyiv leader looks for talks with Moscow The tensions between Ukraine and Russia have been rising unabated. In the past few weeks, Russia has moved around 100,000 troops to Ukraine's border. As a response, US President Joe Biden recently claimed that he has warned his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, that Moscow will be facing economic sanctions if Ukraine is attacked by his forces. He claimed that he has made it very clear that Russia will be facing economic sanctions ‘like never before’ if Russian forces launch an attack on Ukraine. "I made it very clear if in fact he invades Ukraine there will be severe consequences, severe consequences — economic consequences like none he's ever seen or ever have been seen," Biden told reporters at the White House. However, Russia says that the troops are marching towards the border as a defensive measure. "Russia has a peaceful foreign policy, but has the right to defend its security," Putin said at a news conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. "We cannot but be concerned about the prospect of Ukraine's possible admission to NATO, because this will undoubtedly be followed by the deployment of appropriate military contingents, bases and weapons that threaten us," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

NATO chief, Jens Stoltenberg, turns down Russia's demand to deny Ukraine entry

On the 30th anniversary of the founding of Ukraine’s armed forces this week, the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, donned a helmet and flak jacket to tour the trenches and announced with great fanfare the delivery of new tanks, armoured vehicles and ships to front-line units engaged in fighting Russian forces and Kremlin-backed separatists.

While the weapons systems may help to maintain parity in the slow-moving war of attrition that has prevailed for years, neither they nor anything else the Ukrainian military can now muster would be sufficient to repel the full-on Russian assault that Ukrainian and Western officials say Moscow appears to be preparing. With nearly 100,000 troops now massed across Ukraine’s eastern, northern and southern borders and more on the way, even the Ukrainian officials responsible for their country’s defence acknowledge that without a significant influx of resources, their forces do not stand much of a chance.

“Unfortunately, Ukraine needs to be objective at this stage,” said Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s military intelligence service. “There are not sufficient military resources for repelling a full-scale attack by Russia if it begins without the support of Western forces.”

Budanov outlined his nightmare vision of a Russian invasion that would begin with airstrikes and rocket attacks aimed initially at ammunition depots and trench-bound troops. Very quickly, he said, the Ukrainian military would be incapacitated, its leadership unable to coordinate a defence and supply the front. After that, he said, responsibility would fall to front-line commanders to carry on the fight alone.

“They will hold up as long as there are bullets,” Budanov said. “They’ll be able to use what they have in their hands, but believe me without delivery of reserves, there’s not an army in the world that can hold out.”

While Russia could be prepared militarily to launch an invasion of Ukraine as early as January or February, Ukraine and Western intelligence services say there is no indication that Russia President Vladimir Putin has made up his mind whether to do so. In a video call with President Joe Biden on Tuesday, Putin dismissed concerns about the troop buildup on Ukraine’s border, shifting blame to the United States and NATO, which he accused of threatening Russia’s security by supporting Ukraine’s military with arms and training.

“The Russian troops are on their own territory,” an adviser to Putin, Yuri Ushakov, said in a briefing with reporters after the presidents had spoken. “They don’t threaten anyone.”

Still, the amassing of troops and heavy weaponry on the border has forced Ukrainian officials to face some hard truths in recent weeks. The U.S. intelligence community has assessed that Russia has devised plans for an offensive involving 175,000 troops.

Ukraine has only slightly more enlisted soldiers and officers in its entire military, according to the Ministry of Defense. It is outgunned on land, at sea and in the air, with only about 200 aircraft in its air force, including transport vehicles, fewer than the number of fighter planes that Russia has deployed already to the Ukrainian border.

Russia’s forces include battle-ready submarines and frigates in the Black Sea armed with cruise missiles, and land-based units equipped with Iskander-M ballistic missiles, while Ukraine lacks serious missile defence systems. The Russian missiles could wipe out a significant part of the Ukrainian military in less than an hour, said Robert Lee, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and PhD candidate at King’s College in London, who is a Russian military expert.

“If Russia really wants to unleash its conventional capabilities, they could inflict massive damage in a very short period of time,” Lee said. “They can devastate the Ukrainian military in the east really quickly, within the first 30-40 minutes.”

Ukraine’s military is not the pushover it once was. In 2014, elite Russia troops were able to seize the entire Crimean Peninsula in southern Ukraine without firing a shot. When Russian-backed separatists then took over part of eastern Ukraine’s Donbass region, Ukraine had to rely on volunteer brigades of people who took up arms, with little or no military training, to help beat back the insurgency.

But the Ukrainian military clawed its way back, fighting the separatists to a stalemate and putting a stop to the most serious hostilities. It did so with help from Western allies. The United States alone has provided $2.5 billion in military assistance that has included high-tech surveillance and communications equipment and drones. In November, the United States delivered about 88 tons of ammunition, part of a $60 million military aid package pledged by the Biden administration.

On Wednesday, Biden ruled out deploying U.S. forces to Ukraine to deter Russia. But there are more than 150 U.S. military advisers in Ukraine, a combination of U.S. Special Forces and National Guard, currently the Florida National Guard’s 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, according to two U.S. Defense Department officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive troop deployments. About a dozen other NATO countries also have military advisers in Ukraine now, the officials said.

Under the Trump administration, the Ukrainians, for the first time, were given anti-tank Javelin missiles. Ukrainian forces have refrained from firing Javelins on the battlefield, partly from a desire to avoid antagonizing the Kremlin.

The Biden administration has continued to supply them, delivering a new cache of missiles in October. John F. Kirby, a Pentagon spokesperson, said Wednesday that there were no conditions or restrictions placed on the Javelins, except that the Ukrainian forces use them “responsibly” and “in self-defence.”

In an interview with Radio Liberty this month, Gen. Oleksandr Pavlyuk, the commander of the Joint Operation Forces fighting the separatists, said the Javelins had already been deployed to military units in eastern Ukraine. A senior Ukrainian military official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military issues, confirmed that Javelin missiles had been deployed to front-line military units a month ago, but had not yet been fired in battle.

“The Javelins are there, and if our enemies employ tanks they will be used,” the official said.

The Biden administration has remained vague about how else it might come to Ukraine’s defence in case of invasion.

In his video call with Putin on Tuesday, Biden looked his counterpart in the eye and warned the United States would go beyond the economic punishments imposed on Russia after the 2014 seizure of Crimea should Putin decide to order military action, according to an account by Jake Sullivan, the president’s national security adviser. What those penalties might be were left unclear, though few expect the United States to commit significant military assistance beyond what has already been provided.

The lack of firm commitments from Ukraine’s Western backers are a source of consternation for Ukrainian officials.

“They need to decide, either we’re allies as they declare — and in that case allies help one another — or they need to say that this is not exactly the case,” said Budanov, the military intelligence chief. “If the civilized world wants to avoid catastrophe — and this will be a catastrophe for everyone — we need military technical support now, not tomorrow, not the day after tomorrow, not in year. Now.”

Those who understand that such a level of support is unlikely have begun to speak darkly of popular armed resistance against any Russian occupation. Pavlyuk noted that Ukraine had up to half a million people with military experience. If the West does not come to Ukraine’s aid, he said, “we’ll start a partisan war.”

“Eight years have passed and there are very many people with military experience who are prepared with weapons in their hands to fight,” he said.

One senior Ukrainian military official who spoke on condition of anonymity said that if all else failed, the military would simply open its weapons depots and allow the Ukrainian people to take whatever they need to defend themselves and their families.

On the 30th anniversary of the founding of Ukraine’s armed forces this week, the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, donned a helmet and flak jacket to tour the trenches and announced with great fanfare the delivery of new tanks, armoured vehicles and ships to front-line units engaged in fighting Russian forces and Kremlin-backed separatists.

On the 30th anniversary of the founding of Ukraine’s armed forces this week, the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, donned a helmet and flak jacket to tour the trenches and announced with great fanfare the delivery of new tanks, armoured vehicles and ships to front-line units engaged in fighting Russian forces and Kremlin-backed separatists. While the weapons systems may help to maintain parity in the slow-moving war of attrition that has prevailed for years, neither they nor anything else the Ukrainian military can now muster would be sufficient to repel the full-on Russian assault that Ukrainian and Western officials say Moscow appears to be preparing. With nearly 100,000 troops now massed across Ukraine’s eastern, northern and southern borders and more on the way, even the Ukrainian officials responsible for their country’s defence acknowledge that without a significant influx of resources, their forces do not stand much of a chance. “Unfortunately, Ukraine needs to be objective at this stage,” said Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s military intelligence service. “There are not sufficient military resources for repelling a full-scale attack by Russia if it begins without the support of Western forces.” Budanov outlined his nightmare vision of a Russian invasion that would begin with airstrikes and rocket attacks aimed initially at ammunition depots and trench-bound troops. Very quickly, he said, the Ukrainian military would be incapacitated, its leadership unable to coordinate a defence and supply the front. After that, he said, responsibility would fall to front-line commanders to carry on the fight alone. “They will hold up as long as there are bullets,” Budanov said. “They’ll be able to use what they have in their hands, but believe me without delivery of reserves, there’s not an army in the world that can hold out.” While Russia could be prepared militarily to launch an invasion of Ukraine as early as January or February, Ukraine and Western intelligence services say there is no indication that Russia President Vladimir Putin has made up his mind whether to do so. In a video call with President Joe Biden on Tuesday, Putin dismissed concerns about the troop buildup on Ukraine’s border, shifting blame to the United States and NATO, which he accused of threatening Russia’s security by supporting Ukraine’s military with arms and training. “The Russian troops are on their own territory,” an adviser to Putin, Yuri Ushakov, said in a briefing with reporters after the presidents had spoken. “They don’t threaten anyone.” Still, the amassing of troops and heavy weaponry on the border has forced Ukrainian officials to face some hard truths in recent weeks. The U.S. intelligence community has assessed that Russia has devised plans for an offensive involving 175,000 troops. Ukraine has only slightly more enlisted soldiers and officers in its entire military, according to the Ministry of Defense. It is outgunned on land, at sea and in the air, with only about 200 aircraft in its air force, including transport vehicles, fewer than the number of fighter planes that Russia has deployed already to the Ukrainian border. Russia’s forces include battle-ready submarines and frigates in the Black Sea armed with cruise missiles, and land-based units equipped with Iskander-M ballistic missiles, while Ukraine lacks serious missile defence systems. The Russian missiles could wipe out a significant part of the Ukrainian military in less than an hour, said Robert Lee, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and PhD candidate at King’s College in London, who is a Russian military expert. “If Russia really wants to unleash its conventional capabilities, they could inflict massive damage in a very short period of time,” Lee said. “They can devastate the Ukrainian military in the east really quickly, within the first 30-40 minutes.” Ukraine’s military is not the pushover it once was. In 2014, elite Russia troops were able to seize the entire Crimean Peninsula in southern Ukraine without firing a shot. When Russian-backed separatists then took over part of eastern Ukraine’s Donbass region, Ukraine had to rely on volunteer brigades of people who took up arms, with little or no military training, to help beat back the insurgency. But the Ukrainian military clawed its way back, fighting the separatists to a stalemate and putting a stop to the most serious hostilities. It did so with help from Western allies. The United States alone has provided $2.5 billion in military assistance that has included high-tech surveillance and communications equipment and drones. In November, the United States delivered about 88 tons of ammunition, part of a $60 million military aid package pledged by the Biden administration. On Wednesday, Biden ruled out deploying U.S. forces to Ukraine to deter Russia. But there are more than 150 U.S. military advisers in Ukraine, a combination of U.S. Special Forces and National Guard, currently the Florida National Guard’s 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, according to two U.S. Defense Department officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive troop deployments. About a dozen other NATO countries also have military advisers in Ukraine now, the officials said. Under the Trump administration, the Ukrainians, for the first time, were given anti-tank Javelin missiles. Ukrainian forces have refrained from firing Javelins on the battlefield, partly from a desire to avoid antagonizing the Kremlin. The Biden administration has continued to supply them, delivering a new cache of missiles in October. John F. Kirby, a Pentagon spokesperson, said Wednesday that there were no conditions or restrictions placed on the Javelins, except that the Ukrainian forces use them “responsibly” and “in self-defence.” In an interview with Radio Liberty this month, Gen. Oleksandr Pavlyuk, the commander of the Joint Operation Forces fighting the separatists, said the Javelins had already been deployed to military units in eastern Ukraine. A senior Ukrainian military official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military issues, confirmed that Javelin missiles had been deployed to front-line military units a month ago, but had not yet been fired in battle. “The Javelins are there, and if our enemies employ tanks they will be used,” the official said. The Biden administration has remained vague about how else it might come to Ukraine’s defence in case of invasion. In his video call with Putin on Tuesday, Biden looked his counterpart in the eye and warned the United States would go beyond the economic punishments imposed on Russia after the 2014 seizure of Crimea should Putin decide to order military action, according to an account by Jake Sullivan, the president’s national security adviser. What those penalties might be were left unclear, though few expect the United States to commit significant military assistance beyond what has already been provided. The lack of firm commitments from Ukraine’s Western backers are a source of consternation for Ukrainian officials. “They need to decide, either we’re allies as they declare — and in that case allies help one another — or they need to say that this is not exactly the case,” said Budanov, the military intelligence chief. “If the civilized world wants to avoid catastrophe — and this will be a catastrophe for everyone — we need military technical support now, not tomorrow, not the day after tomorrow, not in year. Now.” Those who understand that such a level of support is unlikely have begun to speak darkly of popular armed resistance against any Russian occupation. Pavlyuk noted that Ukraine had up to half a million people with military experience. If the West does not come to Ukraine’s aid, he said, “we’ll start a partisan war.” “Eight years have passed and there are very many people with military experience who are prepared with weapons in their hands to fight,” he said. One senior Ukrainian military official who spoke on condition of anonymity said that if all else failed, the military would simply open its weapons depots and allow the Ukrainian people to take whatever they need to defend themselves and their families.

Ukraine commanders say a Russian invasion would overwhelm them

US responds to Russia's security demands as tensions mount over Ukraine

The tensions between Ukraine and Russia have been rising unabated. It seems to be the right time to deescalate before the situation leads to war. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Along with congratulating new German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on his appointment, US President Joe Biden on Friday spoke about various issues, including efforts needed to check military buildup by Russia near Ukraine, the White House said. &nbsp;

Ukraine&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;on Friday said that the opportunities of talks with Russia may come up as diplomatic efforts have been undertaken by the US to de-escalate tensions. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-human-rights-day-us-imposes-sanctions-on-myanmar-china-north-korea-435962" hreflang="en">On Human Rights Day, US imposes sanctions on Myanmar, China, North Korea</a>

In a Twitter post, Biden, said, "Today, I spoke with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to congratulate him on his appointment." &nbsp;

The White House said, “Biden reaffirmed his support for robust US-German relations and desire to further strengthen transatlantic cooperation." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The two leaders also discussed issues including "continued efforts to end the COVID-19 pandemic, counter the threat of climate change and address Russia’s escalation of forces surrounding Ukraine," it said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-allows-abortion-providers-to-challenge-texas-law-in-federal-court-435920" hreflang="en">US Supreme Court allows abortion providers to challenge Texas law in federal court</a>

Creating fears of a possible invasion, Moscow has increased the number of troops near Ukraine's border. &nbsp;

Zelenskyy, in an interview aired by Ukrainian TV channel 1+1 on Friday, said that ‘thanks to the US’, one more platform for talks with Russia may surface, along with the Normandy format, which involves France and Germany. &nbsp;

“I see the support for this path from both our European partners and the US," Zelenskyy said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The tensions between Ukraine and Russia have been rising unabated. It seems to be the right time to deescalate before the situation leads to war. Along with congratulating new German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on his appointment, US President Joe Biden on Friday spoke about various issues, including efforts needed to check military buildup by Russia near Ukraine, the White House said.

The tensions between Ukraine and Russia have been rising unabated. It seems to be the right time to deescalate before the situation leads to war. Along with congratulating new German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on his appointment, US President Joe Biden on Friday spoke about various issues, including efforts needed to check military buildup by Russia near Ukraine, the White House said. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday said that the opportunities of talks with Russia may come up as diplomatic efforts have been undertaken by the US to de-escalate tensions. Also Read: On Human Rights Day, US imposes sanctions on Myanmar, China, North Korea In a Twitter post, Biden, said, "Today, I spoke with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to congratulate him on his appointment." The White House said, “Biden reaffirmed his support for robust US-German relations and desire to further strengthen transatlantic cooperation." The two leaders also discussed issues including "continued efforts to end the COVID-19 pandemic, counter the threat of climate change and address Russia’s escalation of forces surrounding Ukraine," it said. Also Read: US Supreme Court allows abortion providers to challenge Texas law in federal court Creating fears of a possible invasion, Moscow has increased the number of troops near Ukraine's border. Zelenskyy, in an interview aired by Ukrainian TV channel 1+1 on Friday, said that ‘thanks to the US’, one more platform for talks with Russia may surface, along with the Normandy format, which involves France and Germany. “I see the support for this path from both our European partners and the US," Zelenskyy said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine-Russia tensions: Biden talks to Germany's Scholz as Kyiv leader looks for talks with Moscow

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Monday that country's armed forces were capable of repelling any attack from Russia. December 6 was Ukraine's national army day.

Zelenskiy visited Donetsk. The region has witnessed combat between Ukrainian and Russian troops in conflict that Ukraine says has killed about 14,000 people. The conflict has been ongoing since 2014.

US President Joe Biden has pledged his "unwavering support" to Ukraine in its standoff with Moscow and will hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday to try to defuse the crisis.

Ukraine has accused Russia of massing tens of thousands of troops near its border in preparation for a possible large-scale military offensive, raising the prospect of open war between the two neighbors.

Russia has dismissed talk of a new assault on Ukraine as false and inflammatory but told the West not to cross its "red lines" and to halt the eastward expansion of the NATO alliance.

Zelenskiy will later on Monday travel east to Kharkiv, a traditional center for Ukrainian weapons manufacturing, to mark delivery of tanks, armored personal carriers and armored vehicles made in the city's factories.

Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula in 2014, and recently massed troops on the border between the two countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Monday that country's armed forces were capable of repelling any attack from Russia. December 6 was Ukraine's national army day.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Monday that country's armed forces were capable of repelling any attack from Russia. December 6 was Ukraine's national army day. Zelenskiy visited Donetsk. The region has witnessed combat between Ukrainian and Russian troops in conflict that Ukraine says has killed about 14,000 people. The conflict has been ongoing since 2014. US President Joe Biden has pledged his "unwavering support" to Ukraine in its standoff with Moscow and will hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday to try to defuse the crisis. Ukraine has accused Russia of massing tens of thousands of troops near its border in preparation for a possible large-scale military offensive, raising the prospect of open war between the two neighbors. Russia has dismissed talk of a new assault on Ukraine as false and inflammatory but told the West not to cross its "red lines" and to halt the eastward expansion of the NATO alliance. Zelenskiy will later on Monday travel east to Kharkiv, a traditional center for Ukrainian weapons manufacturing, to mark delivery of tanks, armored personal carriers and armored vehicles made in the city's factories. Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula in 2014, and recently massed troops on the border between the two countries. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian army capable of repelling Russians, says Ukraine president

US President Joe Biden and Russian counterpart will be holding talks via video call on Tuesday, according to media reports, as tensions escalate between the two nuclear-powered countries over reports of Russia troops build-up near the Ukrainian border.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed plans on Saturday to Russia's state news agency RIA Novosti and said it will take place in the evening. Peskov added that “the presidents will decide themselves” how long the conversation will last.

The leaders will reportedly discuss the implementation of agreements reached during their previous meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, the situations in Afghanistan, Iran, Libya and Syria, as well as the Ukrainian crisis.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-prepares-plan-to-protect-ukraine-putin-slams-drone-deployment-at-border-433950">Biden prepares plan to protect Ukraine; Putin slams drone deployment at border</a>

Putin and Biden are also expected to cover strategic stability issues, and the Russian side will ask for guarantees against the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's eastward expansion, Ushakov said.

The Russian official said that the oil market, climate change, and the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic could also be on the agenda.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?&nbsp;</a>

The United States, its NATO allies and Ukraine are accusing Moscow of amassing troops near the Ukrainian border, and Kyiv says it fears Russia is planning an attack.

However, Moscow denies plans to invade Ukraine, and accuses Kyiv of building up its own forces to attack territory held by pro-Russian separatists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-russia-tested-s-400-missiles-in-crimea-amid-operation-sea-breeze-in-ukraine-395351">Also Read:&nbsp;Why Russia tested S-400 missiles in Crimea amid operation Sea Breeze in Ukraine</a>

Russia has been pushing for top-level talks with the US for weeks and has floated the idea of seeking legally-binding security guarantees from the West.

Earlier, Ukraine's defence minister declared that Russia was ready for escalation in January raising fears of an invasion while informing that the Putin regime had launched exercises along the border and had started "winter training".

The Biden administration had declared earlier that it had evidence that Russia was set to attack Ukraine despite Kremlin's denial.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden and Russian counterpart will be holding talks via video call on Tuesday, according to media reports, as tensions escalate between the two nuclear-powered countries over reports of Russia troops build-up near the Ukrainian border.

US President Joe Biden and Russian counterpart will be holding talks via video call on Tuesday, according to media reports, as tensions escalate between the two nuclear-powered countries over reports of Russia troops build-up near the Ukrainian border. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed plans on Saturday to Russia's state news agency RIA Novosti and said it will take place in the evening. Peskov added that “the presidents will decide themselves” how long the conversation will last. The leaders will reportedly discuss the implementation of agreements reached during their previous meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, the situations in Afghanistan, Iran, Libya and Syria, as well as the Ukrainian crisis. Also read | Biden prepares plan to protect Ukraine; Putin slams drone deployment at border Putin and Biden are also expected to cover strategic stability issues, and the Russian side will ask for guarantees against the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's eastward expansion, Ushakov said. The Russian official said that the oil market, climate change, and the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic could also be on the agenda. Also Read in Pics: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? The United States, its NATO allies and Ukraine are accusing Moscow of amassing troops near the Ukrainian border, and Kyiv says it fears Russia is planning an attack. However, Moscow denies plans to invade Ukraine, and accuses Kyiv of building up its own forces to attack territory held by pro-Russian separatists. Also Read: Why Russia tested S-400 missiles in Crimea amid operation Sea Breeze in Ukraine Russia has been pushing for top-level talks with the US for weeks and has floated the idea of seeking legally-binding security guarantees from the West. Earlier, Ukraine's defence minister declared that Russia was ready for escalation in January raising fears of an invasion while informing that the Putin regime had launched exercises along the border and had started "winter training". The Biden administration had declared earlier that it had evidence that Russia was set to attack Ukraine despite Kremlin's denial. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden, Putin all set for video meet on Tuesday amid Ukraine crisis

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday warned&nbsp;his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov of consequences if Russia did not seek diplomatic resolution over situation with Ukraine.

"The best way to avert the crisis is through diplomacy, and that's what I look forward to discussing with Sergei," Blinken told reporters before going into talks with Lavrov. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
He said Russia and Ukraine should each fully implement their obligations under the 2014 Minsk peace process, which was designed to end a war between pro-Russian separatists and Ukrainian government forces in the east of the former Soviet republic.

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Russia's massing of troops along border with Ukraine has caused alarm among the Western powers. Deployment of Russian troops has stoked tensions. The long running conflict has already left 13,000 dead.

"We have deep concerns about the aggressive posture that Russia has taken once again towards Ukraine," Blinken told reporters on Thursday after meeting Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba in Stockholm.

Kuleba said his country would "demonstrate restraint" but called on its partners to "prepare a deterrence package" that would make Russia think twice before resorting to military force.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-military-officials-of-us-china-to-meet-over-rising-incursions-in-taiwan-433522">Top military officials of US, China to meet over rising incursions in Taiwan</a>

The Kremlin said Ukraine's stated goal of retaking Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, amounted to a "direct threat" to Russia.

US, Russia and Ukraine were all in Stockholm on Thursday for a meeting of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), one of the few international dialogue forums to which both the US and Russia belong.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Blinken said Russia was trying to "destabilise Ukraine from within as well as large scale military operations".

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russian troops ready to invade Ukraine?

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He said it was not known whether Russian President Vladimir Putin had decided to invade, but added: "We do know that he's putting in place the capacity to do so on short order, should he so decide."

Blinken warned there would be "far-reaching and long-lasting consequences" for Moscow if it pushed ahead with any aggression.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday warned his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov of consequences if Russia did not seek diplomatic resolution over situation with Ukraine.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday warned his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov of consequences if Russia did not seek diplomatic resolution over situation with Ukraine. "The best way to avert the crisis is through diplomacy, and that's what I look forward to discussing with Sergei," Blinken told reporters before going into talks with Lavrov. He said Russia and Ukraine should each fully implement their obligations under the 2014 Minsk peace process, which was designed to end a war between pro-Russian separatists and Ukrainian government forces in the east of the former Soviet republic. × Russia's massing of troops along border with Ukraine has caused alarm among the Western powers. Deployment of Russian troops has stoked tensions. The long running conflict has already left 13,000 dead. "We have deep concerns about the aggressive posture that Russia has taken once again towards Ukraine," Blinken told reporters on Thursday after meeting Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba in Stockholm. Kuleba said his country would "demonstrate restraint" but called on its partners to "prepare a deterrence package" that would make Russia think twice before resorting to military force. Also Read | Top military officials of US, China to meet over rising incursions in Taiwan The Kremlin said Ukraine's stated goal of retaking Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, amounted to a "direct threat" to Russia. US, Russia and Ukraine were all in Stockholm on Thursday for a meeting of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), one of the few international dialogue forums to which both the US and Russia belong. On Wednesday, Blinken said Russia was trying to "destabilise Ukraine from within as well as large scale military operations". Watch | Gravitas: Russian troops ready to invade Ukraine? He said it was not known whether Russian President Vladimir Putin had decided to invade, but added: "We do know that he's putting in place the capacity to do so on short order, should he so decide." Blinken warned there would be "far-reaching and long-lasting consequences" for Moscow if it pushed ahead with any aggression. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine: Choose diplomacy or face consequences, Blinken tells Russia's Lavrov

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday said that Russia would be forced to act if "red lines" on Ukraine were crossed by NATO. Putin said that deployment of certain offensive missile capabilities on Ukrainian soil would be seen as a trigger by Russia.

Putin was speaking at an investment forum in Moscow. He said he hoped common sense would prevail on all sides. He added that he wanted NATO to be aware of Russia's security concerns around Ukraine.

"If some kind of strike systems appear on the territory of Ukraine, the flight time to Moscow will be 7-10 minutes, and five minutes in the case of a hypersonic weapon being deployed. Just imagine," said Putin.

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"What are we to do in such a scenario? We will have to then create something similar in relation to those who threaten us in that way. And we can do that now."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-urges-swift-action-says-russian-military-operation-could-be-launched-in-the-blink-of-an-eye-432881">Ukraine urges swift action, says Russian military operation could be launched 'in the blink of an eye'</a>

Putin mentioned that Russia had just successfully tested a new sea-based hypersonic missile. He said that the hypersonic missiles would be in service at the start of the new year. &nbsp;

The Russian leader, who questioned why NATO had ignored repeated Russian warnings and expanded its military infrastructure eastwards, singled out the deployment in Poland and Romania of the Aegis Ashore missile defence system.

He made it clear he did not want to see the same launch MK41 systems, which Russia has long complained can be used to also launch offensive Tomahawk cruise missiles, in Ukraine.

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"Creating such threats (in Ukraine) would be red lines for us. But I hope it doesn't come to that. I hope that a sense of common sense, responsibility for both our countries and the world community will prevail," said Putin.

Earlier on Tuesday, the United States and Britain warned Russia over any new military aggression against Ukraine as NATO met to discuss why Russia had moved troops closer to its southern neighbour.

The Kremlin annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and then backed rebels fighting government troops in the east of the country. That conflict has killed 14,000 people, according to Kyiv, and is still simmering.

Two Russian troop build-ups this year on Ukraine's borders have alarmed the West. In May, Russian troops there numbered 100,000, the largest since its takeover of Crimea, Western officials say.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday said that Russia would be forced to act if "red lines" on Ukraine were crossed by NATO. Putin said that deployment of certain offensive missile capabilities on Ukrainian soil would be seen as a trigger by Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday said that Russia would be forced to act if "red lines" on Ukraine were crossed by NATO. Putin said that deployment of certain offensive missile capabilities on Ukrainian soil would be seen as a trigger by Russia. Putin was speaking at an investment forum in Moscow. He said he hoped common sense would prevail on all sides. He added that he wanted NATO to be aware of Russia's security concerns around Ukraine. "If some kind of strike systems appear on the territory of Ukraine, the flight time to Moscow will be 7-10 minutes, and five minutes in the case of a hypersonic weapon being deployed. Just imagine," said Putin. × "What are we to do in such a scenario? We will have to then create something similar in relation to those who threaten us in that way. And we can do that now." Also Read: Ukraine urges swift action, says Russian military operation could be launched 'in the blink of an eye' Putin mentioned that Russia had just successfully tested a new sea-based hypersonic missile. He said that the hypersonic missiles would be in service at the start of the new year. The Russian leader, who questioned why NATO had ignored repeated Russian warnings and expanded its military infrastructure eastwards, singled out the deployment in Poland and Romania of the Aegis Ashore missile defence system. He made it clear he did not want to see the same launch MK41 systems, which Russia has long complained can be used to also launch offensive Tomahawk cruise missiles, in Ukraine. Also Read: UK spy chief warns that Russian, Chinese race for AI mastery might change geopolitics "Creating such threats (in Ukraine) would be red lines for us. But I hope it doesn't come to that. I hope that a sense of common sense, responsibility for both our countries and the world community will prevail," said Putin. Earlier on Tuesday, the United States and Britain warned Russia over any new military aggression against Ukraine as NATO met to discuss why Russia had moved troops closer to its southern neighbour. The Kremlin annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and then backed rebels fighting government troops in the east of the country. That conflict has killed 14,000 people, according to Kyiv, and is still simmering. Two Russian troop build-ups this year on Ukraine's borders have alarmed the West. In May, Russian troops there numbered 100,000, the largest since its takeover of Crimea, Western officials say. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to act if NATO crosses red lines in Ukraine, says Putin

Kyiv called for swift action on Monday to ward off Moscow's threat of invasion, saying that a Russian military operation could be launched "in the blink of an eye".

Russian military activity near Ukraine has alarmed Western countries this month, with the United States, saying it is "concerned" about an influx of troops near the border.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelenskiy-says-russia-is-planning-coup-against-him-432250">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says Russia is planning coup against him</a>

Dmytro Kuleba, Ukrainian Foreign Minister, told foreign media at a briefing that it is better to act now than later to "deter Russia".

"What we are seeing is very serious. Russia has deployed a large military force in regions close to Ukraine's state border."

"If Russia decides to undertake a military operation, things will happen in literally the blink of an eye," the foreign minister told reporters.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?</a>

According to him, Moscow has massed 115,000 troops around Ukraine, on the Crimean peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014, and in two eastern provinces occupied by pro-Russian separatist forces.

He added that tanks, artillery, electronic warfare systems, and air and naval forces had also been deployed.

However, we will "fight back," he said, adding that Ukraine's military has grown "incomparably stronger" than a few years back in 2014 when breakaway fighters took over the Donetsk and Lugansk regions in a simmering conflict that has claimed over 13,000 lives.

Kyiv and its Western allies accuse Russia of sending troops and arms to support the separatists, a charge Moscow denies.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Ukraine witness a coup in the next 36 hours?

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Having seen an increase in violence at the beginning of the year, Russia sent around 100,000 troops to Ukraine's borders in the spring, causing worries about a major escalation.

The Russians later announced a pullback, but Ukraine and ally the United States at the time said the withdrawal was limited.

This new Russian troop movement has alarmed Ukraine, the United States, NATO, and the European Union in recent weeks, and they have warned of an invasion.

Moscow has dismissed the claims, accused Kyiv of "provocations" and has instead blamed Washington for escalating tensions in the region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malicious-propaganda-russian-spy-chief-dismisses-reports-of-plan-to-invade-ukraine-432438">'Malicious propaganda': Russian spy chief dismisses reports of plan to invade Ukraine</a>

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby called Russian troop movements "an continuing concern" and pledged US support for Ukrainian forces, though he downplayed expectations of a direct US military intervention.

"We continue to see movement, we continue to see additions" to their forces near the Ukrainian border, said Kirby.

"We're watching it very closely," he told reporters, adding: "We don't envision any US military intervention in this conflict."

(WIth inputs from agencies)

Kyiv called for swift action on Monday to ward off Moscow's threat of invasion, saying that a Russian military operation could be launched "in the blink of an eye".

Kyiv called for swift action on Monday to ward off Moscow's threat of invasion, saying that a Russian military operation could be launched "in the blink of an eye". Russian military activity near Ukraine has alarmed Western countries this month, with the United States, saying it is "concerned" about an influx of troops near the border. Also read | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says Russia is planning coup against him Dmytro Kuleba, Ukrainian Foreign Minister, told foreign media at a briefing that it is better to act now than later to "deter Russia". "What we are seeing is very serious. Russia has deployed a large military force in regions close to Ukraine's state border." "If Russia decides to undertake a military operation, things will happen in literally the blink of an eye," the foreign minister told reporters. Also see | What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? According to him, Moscow has massed 115,000 troops around Ukraine, on the Crimean peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014, and in two eastern provinces occupied by pro-Russian separatist forces. He added that tanks, artillery, electronic warfare systems, and air and naval forces had also been deployed. However, we will "fight back," he said, adding that Ukraine's military has grown "incomparably stronger" than a few years back in 2014 when breakaway fighters took over the Donetsk and Lugansk regions in a simmering conflict that has claimed over 13,000 lives. Kyiv and its Western allies accuse Russia of sending troops and arms to support the separatists, a charge Moscow denies. Watch | Gravitas: Will Ukraine witness a coup in the next 36 hours? Having seen an increase in violence at the beginning of the year, Russia sent around 100,000 troops to Ukraine's borders in the spring, causing worries about a major escalation. The Russians later announced a pullback, but Ukraine and ally the United States at the time said the withdrawal was limited. This new Russian troop movement has alarmed Ukraine, the United States, NATO, and the European Union in recent weeks, and they have warned of an invasion. Moscow has dismissed the claims, accused Kyiv of "provocations" and has instead blamed Washington for escalating tensions in the region. Also read | 'Malicious propaganda': Russian spy chief dismisses reports of plan to invade Ukraine Pentagon spokesman John Kirby called Russian troop movements "an continuing concern" and pledged US support for Ukrainian forces, though he downplayed expectations of a direct US military intervention. "We continue to see movement, we continue to see additions" to their forces near the Ukrainian border, said Kirby. "We're watching it very closely," he told reporters, adding: "We don't envision any US military intervention in this conflict." (WIth inputs from agencies)

Ukraine urges swift action, says Russian military operation could be launched 'in the blink of an eye'

Kremlin on Monday said that it was alarmed by US-backed push to supply arms to Ukraine and claimed that reports in US media about Russia planning to attack Ukraine were disinformation campaign.&nbsp;

Ukraine's military intelligence has told Military Times news outlet that more than 92,000 Russian troops were massed around Ukraine's borders and were preparing to attack latest by early February.

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine's military intelligence said such an attack would probably involve air strikes, artillery and armoured attacks followed by airborne assaults in the east, amphibious assaults in Odessa and Mariupol, and a smaller incursion through Belarus.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the idea of a possible Russian attack and said that Moscow itself was being targeted in a disinformation campaign.

"This is whipping up tension and is another attempt to present Russia as the one threatening the process of settling the situation (in eastern Ukraine)." said Peskov.

"And of course we cannot rule out that this is cover for aggressive dreams that Kyiv may have. I mean aggressive dreams about a possible desire to solve the problem in the south-east by force."

Ukraine's ties with Russia collapsed in 2014 after Moscow backed separatists who seized a swath of eastern Ukraine, territory that Kyiv says it wants back. Russia also annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula that same year.

Peskov accused Ukraine of what he said were provocative actions.

"Kyiv is itself building up its forces, Kyiv is being helped to build up its forces, Kyiv is being supplied with a significant amount of weapons, including modern high-tech weapons," Peskov told reporters.

"And we are observing this with great alarm, knowing the significant influence of extreme-minded politicians in Ukraine," he said.

Ukraine says it is upgrading its combat capabilities to defend itself against new possible Russian aggression.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin on Monday said that it was alarmed by US-backed push to supply arms to Ukraine and claimed that reports in US media about Russia planning to attack Ukraine were disinformation campaign.

Kremlin on Monday said that it was alarmed by US-backed push to supply arms to Ukraine and claimed that reports in US media about Russia planning to attack Ukraine were disinformation campaign. Ukraine's military intelligence has told Military Times news outlet that more than 92,000 Russian troops were massed around Ukraine's borders and were preparing to attack latest by early February. Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine's military intelligence said such an attack would probably involve air strikes, artillery and armoured attacks followed by airborne assaults in the east, amphibious assaults in Odessa and Mariupol, and a smaller incursion through Belarus. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the idea of a possible Russian attack and said that Moscow itself was being targeted in a disinformation campaign. "This is whipping up tension and is another attempt to present Russia as the one threatening the process of settling the situation (in eastern Ukraine)." said Peskov. "And of course we cannot rule out that this is cover for aggressive dreams that Kyiv may have. I mean aggressive dreams about a possible desire to solve the problem in the south-east by force." Ukraine's ties with Russia collapsed in 2014 after Moscow backed separatists who seized a swath of eastern Ukraine, territory that Kyiv says it wants back. Russia also annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula that same year. Peskov accused Ukraine of what he said were provocative actions. "Kyiv is itself building up its forces, Kyiv is being helped to build up its forces, Kyiv is being supplied with a significant amount of weapons, including modern high-tech weapons," Peskov told reporters. "And we are observing this with great alarm, knowing the significant influence of extreme-minded politicians in Ukraine," he said. Ukraine says it is upgrading its combat capabilities to defend itself against new possible Russian aggression. (With inputs from agencies)

Alarmed by US arms push for Ukraine, says Kremlin

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed "real concerns" about Russia's statements and actions on Ukraine. He was speaking with reporters on a visit to Senegal.

"We have real concerns about Russia's unusual military activity on the border with Ukraine. We have real concerns about some of the rhetoric we have been seeing and hearing from Russia as well as in social media," Blinken told reporters on a visit to Senegal.

He declined to clearly say whether US intelligence believed Russian President Putin was making plans to seize land from Ukraine.

"We don't know what President Putin's intentions are. But we do know what's happened in the past. We know the playbook of trying to cite some illusory provocation from Ukraine or any other country and using that as an excuse for what Russia plans to do all along," Blinken said.&nbsp;

He was referring to the crisis that erupted in 2014 when Russia, following the toppling of a Ukrainian government that had resisted moves towards the West, seized the Crimea peninsula and backed separatists waging a conflict in Ukraine's largely Russian-speaking east.

Putin on Thursday accused Western nations of escalation the Ukraine conflict by holding drills in the Black Sea and flying bombers near its borders.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed "real concerns" about Russia's statements and actions on Ukraine. He was speaking with reporters on a visit to Senegal.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed "real concerns" about Russia's statements and actions on Ukraine. He was speaking with reporters on a visit to Senegal. "We have real concerns about Russia's unusual military activity on the border with Ukraine. We have real concerns about some of the rhetoric we have been seeing and hearing from Russia as well as in social media," Blinken told reporters on a visit to Senegal. He declined to clearly say whether US intelligence believed Russian President Putin was making plans to seize land from Ukraine. "We don't know what President Putin's intentions are. But we do know what's happened in the past. We know the playbook of trying to cite some illusory provocation from Ukraine or any other country and using that as an excuse for what Russia plans to do all along," Blinken said. He was referring to the crisis that erupted in 2014 when Russia, following the toppling of a Ukrainian government that had resisted moves towards the West, seized the Crimea peninsula and backed separatists waging a conflict in Ukraine's largely Russian-speaking east. Putin on Thursday accused Western nations of escalation the Ukraine conflict by holding drills in the Black Sea and flying bombers near its borders. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken expresses 'real concerns' over Russia on Ukraine

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