Former US President Donald Trump's lawyer&nbsp;Rudy Giuliani's Manhattan apartment and offices have been raided by the federal authorities on Wednesday amid a continuing investigation into the former New York mayor's dealings in Ukraine, his attorney said.

Investigators with search warrants combed Giuliani's residence and a separate office, seizing electronic devices.

They also seized a phone from a Washington attorney, Victoria Toensing, who has advised Trump and worked with Giuliani on Ukraine-related matters, according to news reports.

Giuliani, himself once a top New York prosecutor and then mayor of the city, was a personal lawyer for Trump when the president was impeached in December 2019 for seeking political help from Ukraine.

Giuliani spent months trying to help Trump find dirt in Ukraine on election rival Joe Biden and Biden's son Hunter, during 2018-2020.

But the investigation behind Wednesday's raid could be honing in on Giuliani doing paid work for Ukrainian businessmen at the same time, violating US laws against unregistered lobbying for foreign entities.

Two Ukrainian-born men, Lev Parnas and Igor Fruman, who helped Giuliani in those efforts were arrested in October 2019 and charged with illegally funnelling large donations to a pro-Trump fundraising committee.

Legal thuggery

Giuliani's son Andrew Giuliani condemned the raid outside his father's apartment building, calling it "disgusting" and accusing the Justice Department of a political agenda.

"Anybody, any American, whether you're red or blue, should be disturbed by what happened here today, by the continued politicization of the Justice Department," he told reporters.

"If this can happen to the former president's lawyer, this can happen to any American. Enough is enough," he said.

Giuliani's attorney, Robert Costello, told the New York Times that the raids Wednesday were "legal thuggery."

“Why would you do this to anyone, let alone someone who was the associate attorney general, United States attorney, the mayor of New York City and the personal lawyer to the 45th president of the United States?" he asked.

According to reports, the FBI and the Justice Department's prosecutor in New York had sought search warrants for Giuliani's phones last year but were denied that while Trump remained in office, until January 20.

Under the new attorney general, Merrick Garland, in the administration of now-President Biden, the warrants were approved.

The FBI and Justice Department declined to comment on the raids or the investigation.

Investigations of lawyers, especially those who represented a president, are highly sensitive, given the protections they have for privileged dealings with clients.

Nevertheless, a previous personal attorney for Trump, Michael Cohen, was sent to prison in 2019 after pleading guilty to charges including paying hush money to two women who said they slept with Trump, for tax fraud and for lying to Congress.

The impeachment investigation into Trump revealed extensive involvement by Giuliani in Ukrainian affairs. He appeared to take part in a push by powerful Ukrainian business and political figures to have Trump remove the US ambassador, Masha Yovanovitch.

He also helped pressure the government in Kiev to provide information that would support Trump's baseless claim that his Democratic election rival Biden was involved in corrupt dealings in the country.

On January 11, the US Treasury imposed sanctions on four Ukrainians who it said helped Giuliani in the effort to smear Biden ahead of the 2020 presidential election.

The Ukraine affair isn't the only legal case facing Giuliani.

In January he was sued by a voting machine maker for $1.3 billion for spreading claims after the November presidential election that its machines were part of alleged massive voting fraud that caused Trump's loss.

No significant fraud has been demonstrated in the election.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US President Donald Trump's lawyer Rudy Giuliani's Manhattan apartment and offices have been raided by the federal authorities on Wednesday amid a continuing investigation into the former New York mayor's dealings in Ukraine, his attorney said.

Former US President Donald Trump's lawyer Rudy Giuliani's Manhattan apartment and offices have been raided by the federal authorities on Wednesday amid a continuing investigation into the former New York mayor's dealings in Ukraine, his attorney said. Investigators with search warrants combed Giuliani's residence and a separate office, seizing electronic devices. They also seized a phone from a Washington attorney, Victoria Toensing, who has advised Trump and worked with Giuliani on Ukraine-related matters, according to news reports. Giuliani, himself once a top New York prosecutor and then mayor of the city, was a personal lawyer for Trump when the president was impeached in December 2019 for seeking political help from Ukraine. Giuliani spent months trying to help Trump find dirt in Ukraine on election rival Joe Biden and Biden's son Hunter, during 2018-2020. But the investigation behind Wednesday's raid could be honing in on Giuliani doing paid work for Ukrainian businessmen at the same time, violating US laws against unregistered lobbying for foreign entities. Two Ukrainian-born men, Lev Parnas and Igor Fruman, who helped Giuliani in those efforts were arrested in October 2019 and charged with illegally funnelling large donations to a pro-Trump fundraising committee. Legal thuggery Giuliani's son Andrew Giuliani condemned the raid outside his father's apartment building, calling it "disgusting" and accusing the Justice Department of a political agenda. "Anybody, any American, whether you're red or blue, should be disturbed by what happened here today, by the continued politicization of the Justice Department," he told reporters. "If this can happen to the former president's lawyer, this can happen to any American. Enough is enough," he said. Giuliani's attorney, Robert Costello, told the New York Times that the raids Wednesday were "legal thuggery." “Why would you do this to anyone, let alone someone who was the associate attorney general, United States attorney, the mayor of New York City and the personal lawyer to the 45th president of the United States?" he asked. According to reports, the FBI and the Justice Department's prosecutor in New York had sought search warrants for Giuliani's phones last year but were denied that while Trump remained in office, until January 20. Under the new attorney general, Merrick Garland, in the administration of now-President Biden, the warrants were approved. The FBI and Justice Department declined to comment on the raids or the investigation. Investigations of lawyers, especially those who represented a president, are highly sensitive, given the protections they have for privileged dealings with clients. Nevertheless, a previous personal attorney for Trump, Michael Cohen, was sent to prison in 2019 after pleading guilty to charges including paying hush money to two women who said they slept with Trump, for tax fraud and for lying to Congress. The impeachment investigation into Trump revealed extensive involvement by Giuliani in Ukrainian affairs. He appeared to take part in a push by powerful Ukrainian business and political figures to have Trump remove the US ambassador, Masha Yovanovitch. He also helped pressure the government in Kiev to provide information that would support Trump's baseless claim that his Democratic election rival Biden was involved in corrupt dealings in the country. On January 11, the US Treasury imposed sanctions on four Ukrainians who it said helped Giuliani in the effort to smear Biden ahead of the 2020 presidential election. The Ukraine affair isn't the only legal case facing Giuliani. In January he was sued by a voting machine maker for $1.3 billion for spreading claims after the November presidential election that its machines were part of alleged massive voting fraud that caused Trump's loss. No significant fraud has been demonstrated in the election. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump's lawyer Rudy Giuliani's apartment raided by federal authorities

Federal investigators raided the New York apartment of former US President Donald Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani early on Wednesday as part of a probe into his dealings in Ukraine.

Trump's Ex lawyer Rudy Giuliani's apartment searched in federal investigation

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged his country's army to remain on alert despite Russia's drawdown of its troops from borders, saying they could return 'at any moment'.

Ukraine: Prez Zelensky warns Russian troops can return 'at any moment'

Moscow announced on Monday it was expelling a Ukrainian embassy worker, the latest in a wave of diplomatic expulsions that have embroiled Russian and European diplomats, while Kiev vowed to respond in kind.

The expulsion came amid heightened tensions between Moscow and Kiev over an uptick in fighting between Ukraine's army and pro-Russia separatists in eastern Ukraine.

Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement that due to "unfriendly actions taken by the Ukrainian side... an employee of the Ukrainian embassy in Russia was declared persona non grata".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Russia expels Italian diplomat in Moscow">Russia expels Italian diplomat in Moscow</a>

It added that the diplomat, who was not named, must leave Russia by the end of April.

The ministry warned Ukraine that further measures would be taken against embassy staff in Moscow "in the event of continuing hostile actions" against Russian diplomats in Ukraine.

Ukraine's foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko told AFP that "in the near future" Kiev will announce the expulsion of a Russian diplomat.

Nikolenko said that the expulsion of the Ukrainian diplomat is "another provocation of the Russian side...devoid of logic, without any reasons behind it".&nbsp;

Ukraine last week expelled a Russian diplomat in response to Moscow's order for a Ukrainian consul in Russia's second city Saint Petersburg to leave the country.

According to Russia's security agency, the consul was trying to obtain sensitive information from a Russian national.

Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage.

Romania on Monday said it was removing a Russian diplomat in solidarity with the Czech Republic, which recently ordered out 18 Russian embassy staff over a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in 2014.

Russia earlier Monday expelled an Italian naval attache responding to a similar move by Rome last month in the fallout of a spying scandal.

Kiev has been fighting pro-Russia separatists in its eastern breakaway regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula.

At least 31 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020, while the separatists say 22 of their fighters have died.

Moscow announced on Monday it was expelling a Ukrainian embassy worker, the latest in a wave of diplomatic expulsions that have embroiled Russian and European diplomats, while Kiev vowed to respond in kind.

Moscow announced on Monday it was expelling a Ukrainian embassy worker, the latest in a wave of diplomatic expulsions that have embroiled Russian and European diplomats, while Kiev vowed to respond in kind. The expulsion came amid heightened tensions between Moscow and Kiev over an uptick in fighting between Ukraine's army and pro-Russia separatists in eastern Ukraine. Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement that due to "unfriendly actions taken by the Ukrainian side... an employee of the Ukrainian embassy in Russia was declared persona non grata". Also read: Russia expels Italian diplomat in Moscow It added that the diplomat, who was not named, must leave Russia by the end of April. The ministry warned Ukraine that further measures would be taken against embassy staff in Moscow "in the event of continuing hostile actions" against Russian diplomats in Ukraine. Ukraine's foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko told AFP that "in the near future" Kiev will announce the expulsion of a Russian diplomat. Nikolenko said that the expulsion of the Ukrainian diplomat is "another provocation of the Russian side...devoid of logic, without any reasons behind it". Ukraine last week expelled a Russian diplomat in response to Moscow's order for a Ukrainian consul in Russia's second city Saint Petersburg to leave the country. According to Russia's security agency, the consul was trying to obtain sensitive information from a Russian national. Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage. Romania on Monday said it was removing a Russian diplomat in solidarity with the Czech Republic, which recently ordered out 18 Russian embassy staff over a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in 2014. Russia earlier Monday expelled an Italian naval attache responding to a similar move by Rome last month in the fallout of a spying scandal. Kiev has been fighting pro-Russia separatists in its eastern breakaway regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula. At least 31 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020, while the separatists say 22 of their fighters have died.

Russia expels Ukrainian diplomat in ongoing spat

People across Ukraine, including President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, have marked the 35th anniversary of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, the world's worst civilian nuclear accident.

Ukraine marks 35th anniversary of Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was welcome in Moscow "any time" but stressed that he should discuss the conflict in eastern Ukraine with separatists directly.

"If we are talking about bilateral relations, then by all means, we are ready to welcome the president of Ukraine at any time that is convenient for him," the Russian leader said during a meeting with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow.

Putin's invitation to Zelensky came in response to this week's offer from the Ukrainian president for the two leaders to meet in eastern Ukraine, where an uptick in fighting between Kiev's army and pro-Moscow separatists has raised fears of a return to full-blown war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-security-service-says-it-has-detained-60-pro-russian-protesters-379222">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-security-service-says-it-has-detained-60-pro-russian-protesters-379222/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ukraine, the European Union and the United States have recently sounded the alarm over Russian troops massing on the border of the ex-Soviet country.

Moscow has said troops are running military drills in response to NATO manoeuvres, and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday ordered the troops to return to their permanent bases by May 1.

"If President Zelensky wants to start repairing relations, then we of course welcome it," Putin told journalists at the beginning of negotiations with Lukashenko.

But the Russian leader said that if Zelensky hoped to resolve problems stemming from fighting in eastern Ukraine, then he should first meet with leaders of the breakaway regions in Donetsk and Lugansk.

"And only then discuss these issues with representatives of third countries, which in this the case is Russia," Putin said.

Kiev has been battling pro-Russian separatists in the eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula.

The conflict, which has claimed more than 13,000 lives, has seen around 30 Ukrainian soldiers killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was welcome in Moscow "any time" but stressed that he should discuss the conflict in eastern Ukraine with separatists directly.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was welcome in Moscow "any time" but stressed that he should discuss the conflict in eastern Ukraine with separatists directly. "If we are talking about bilateral relations, then by all means, we are ready to welcome the president of Ukraine at any time that is convenient for him," the Russian leader said during a meeting with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow. Putin's invitation to Zelensky came in response to this week's offer from the Ukrainian president for the two leaders to meet in eastern Ukraine, where an uptick in fighting between Kiev's army and pro-Moscow separatists has raised fears of a return to full-blown war. Watch | Ukraine, the European Union and the United States have recently sounded the alarm over Russian troops massing on the border of the ex-Soviet country. Moscow has said troops are running military drills in response to NATO manoeuvres, and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday ordered the troops to return to their permanent bases by May 1. "If President Zelensky wants to start repairing relations, then we of course welcome it," Putin told journalists at the beginning of negotiations with Lukashenko. But the Russian leader said that if Zelensky hoped to resolve problems stemming from fighting in eastern Ukraine, then he should first meet with leaders of the breakaway regions in Donetsk and Lugansk. "And only then discuss these issues with representatives of third countries, which in this the case is Russia," Putin said. Kiev has been battling pro-Russian separatists in the eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula. The conflict, which has claimed more than 13,000 lives, has seen around 30 Ukrainian soldiers killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020.

Putin offers to meet Ukraine president in Moscow 'any time'

Russia announced on Thursday that it was ordering its troop to return to base from the Ukraine border. The troop build-up had strained relations between the two countries that have been uneasy since Russian annexation of Ukraine's Crimean peninsula.

The relief among the investors was apparent as the currencies of both, Russia and Ukraine rose sharply after the announcement. Russia also ended the war games in Crimea.

A confirmed pullout of the troops brought in on top of the permanent contingent will likely be welcomed by Western countries that had been expressing alarm at the prospect of further Russian intervention in eastern Ukraine. Russian-backed separatists have been fighting the Ukrainian government in the region since 2014.

Ukrainian president's spokeswoman said earlier this month that Russia had amassed more than 40,000 troops deployed om Ukraine's eastern border and over 40,000 in Crimea. Around 50,000 of them were new deployments, she said.

Moscow did not provide the exact number of troops but had insisted that the movement of Russian troops was defensive in nature.

In a tweet, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Ukraine "welcomes any steps to decrease the military presence &amp; deescalate the situation in Donbas (eastern Ukraine)", adding "Grateful to international partners for their support".

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said he had ordered troops involved in exercises to return to their bases by May 1, as they had completed what he called an "inspection" in the border area.

"I believe the objectives of the snap inspection have been fully achieved. The troops have demonstrated their ability to provide a credible defence for the country," Shoigu said.

EQUIPMENT LEFT

Military hardware was to be left at a training ground near the city of Voronezh, about six hours' drive from Ukraine, so that it could be used again later this year in another big scheduled exercise.

Hours earlier, Shoigu had attended manoeuvres in Crimea, which Moscow said involved 10,000 troops and more than 40 warships. Russia also announced it had arrested a Ukrainian man in Crimea as a spy.

(With agency inputs)

Russia announced on Thursday that it was ordering its troop to return to base from the Ukraine border. The troop build-up had strained relations between the two countries that have been uneasy since Russian annexation of Ukraine's Crimean peninsula.

Russia announced on Thursday that it was ordering its troop to return to base from the Ukraine border. The troop build-up had strained relations between the two countries that have been uneasy since Russian annexation of Ukraine's Crimean peninsula. The relief among the investors was apparent as the currencies of both, Russia and Ukraine rose sharply after the announcement. Russia also ended the war games in Crimea. A confirmed pullout of the troops brought in on top of the permanent contingent will likely be welcomed by Western countries that had been expressing alarm at the prospect of further Russian intervention in eastern Ukraine. Russian-backed separatists have been fighting the Ukrainian government in the region since 2014. Ukrainian president's spokeswoman said earlier this month that Russia had amassed more than 40,000 troops deployed om Ukraine's eastern border and over 40,000 in Crimea. Around 50,000 of them were new deployments, she said. Moscow did not provide the exact number of troops but had insisted that the movement of Russian troops was defensive in nature. In a tweet, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Ukraine "welcomes any steps to decrease the military presence & deescalate the situation in Donbas (eastern Ukraine)", adding "Grateful to international partners for their support". Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said he had ordered troops involved in exercises to return to their bases by May 1, as they had completed what he called an "inspection" in the border area. "I believe the objectives of the snap inspection have been fully achieved. The troops have demonstrated their ability to provide a credible defence for the country," Shoigu said. EQUIPMENT LEFT Military hardware was to be left at a training ground near the city of Voronezh, about six hours' drive from Ukraine, so that it could be used again later this year in another big scheduled exercise. Hours earlier, Shoigu had attended manoeuvres in Crimea, which Moscow said involved 10,000 troops and more than 40 warships. Russia also announced it had arrested a Ukrainian man in Crimea as a spy. (With agency inputs)

Russia orders its troops back from areas near Ukraine border

After holding a massive military drill in Crimea Russia has ordered its top army command to began the returning troops to their permanent bases, saying it had successfully completed a "snap inspection"of forces in its south and west, near the border with Ukraine.

Russia orders top command to begin returning to bases after drills in Crimea

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border.

"Military units and formations are currently marching to railway loading stations and airfields, and loading onto landing ships, railway platforms and military transport aircraft," the ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Thursday that tens of thousands of Russian troops deployed to southern and western Russia for exercise would be returning to their bases.

The Russian buildup came as fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia eastern separatists increased in last few months.

Both NATO and Kiev welcomed Russia's announcement of the drawdown, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saying "the reduction of troops on our border proportionally reduces tension".

A NATO official said any "de-escalation by Russia" would be important, adding: "NATO remains vigilant and we will continue to closely monitor Russia's unjustified military buildup in and around Ukraine."

The United States had said it was "looking for action" on the troop withdrawal.

Uptick in separatist conflict

Hours after the end to the exercises was announced, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Zelensky was welcome in Moscow anytime to discuss bilateral relations, but that the Ukrainian leader should discuss the surge in fighting with separatist leaders.

Russia said it had sent tens of thousands of troops to the country's south and west and to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, for a series of military drills.

It also ramped up military exercises in the Black Sea earlier this week, with more than 20 Russian warships participating in joint drills with air force fighter jets.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border.

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border. "Military units and formations are currently marching to railway loading stations and airfields, and loading onto landing ships, railway platforms and military transport aircraft," the ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Thursday that tens of thousands of Russian troops deployed to southern and western Russia for exercise would be returning to their bases. The Russian buildup came as fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia eastern separatists increased in last few months. Both NATO and Kiev welcomed Russia's announcement of the drawdown, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saying "the reduction of troops on our border proportionally reduces tension". A NATO official said any "de-escalation by Russia" would be important, adding: "NATO remains vigilant and we will continue to closely monitor Russia's unjustified military buildup in and around Ukraine." The United States had said it was "looking for action" on the troop withdrawal. Uptick in separatist conflict Hours after the end to the exercises was announced, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Zelensky was welcome in Moscow anytime to discuss bilateral relations, but that the Ukrainian leader should discuss the surge in fighting with separatist leaders. Russia said it had sent tens of thousands of troops to the country's south and west and to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, for a series of military drills. It also ramped up military exercises in the Black Sea earlier this week, with more than 20 Russian warships participating in joint drills with air force fighter jets. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine borders

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the reduction of Russian troops that were running drills near his country's border, saying the move "reduces tensions".

Ukraine welcomes drawdown of Russian troops from border

Ukraine&nbsp;on Wednesday urged&nbsp;Western&nbsp;allies&nbsp;to show they were prepared to punish Moscow with&nbsp;new&nbsp;sanctions, including kicking&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;out of the global SWIFT payments system, to deter the Kremlin from resorting to more&nbsp;military&nbsp;force against&nbsp;Ukraine.

In an interview with Reuters, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said while Kyiv had no&nbsp;new&nbsp;information indicating that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;had decided to take&nbsp;new&nbsp;military&nbsp;action against&nbsp;Ukraine, it was important for the&nbsp;West&nbsp;to&nbsp;act&nbsp;now&nbsp;to prevent that happening.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-russia-is-massing-120000-troops-along-the-ukraine-border-379129/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ukraine&nbsp;is trying to shore up international support in its standoff with Moscow over a build-up of&nbsp;Russian troops on its eastern border and in Crimea.

"I have no information to state that the decision to launch a&nbsp;military&nbsp;operation against&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;has already been taken. So it can go in either direction&nbsp;now," Kuleba said.

"And this is why the reaction of the&nbsp;West, the consolidated reaction of the&nbsp;West, is so important&nbsp;now, to prevent Putin ... from making that decision."

Kyiv and Moscow have traded blame for a collapse in the ceasefire in the eastern Donbass region, where Ukrainian troops have battled&nbsp;Russian-backed forces in a conflict Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people since 2014.

Kuleba said he asked Washington to supply "powerful means of electronic warfare" to counter&nbsp;Russia's capacity to jam Ukrainian communications when he met US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week.

He also revealed he had urged a meeting of European Union foreign ministers on Monday to consider "banning&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;from SWIFT" as part of a package of&nbsp;new&nbsp;economic sanctions if&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;escalated the situation.

Western diplomacy had helped restrain&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;but everything "will depend on whether they're ready to ... follow their words with deeds," Kuleba said.

He said&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;had not received a response from the Kremlin to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's invitation to his&nbsp;Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Tuesday for talks in the Donbass conflict zone.

Putin on Wednesday warned the&nbsp;West&nbsp;not to cross&nbsp;Russia's "red lines", saying Moscow would respond swiftly and harshly to any provocations.

"I read the message of President Putin the following way: 'we will be crossing your red lines, but you are not allowed to cross our red lines, and we will be defining where our red lines are,'" Kuleba said.

Ukraine on Wednesday urged Western allies to show they were prepared to punish Moscow with new sanctions, including kicking Russia out of the global SWIFT payments system, to deter the Kremlin from resorting to more military force against Ukraine.

Ukraine on Wednesday urged Western allies to show they were prepared to punish Moscow with new sanctions, including kicking Russia out of the global SWIFT payments system, to deter the Kremlin from resorting to more military force against Ukraine. In an interview with Reuters, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said while Kyiv had no new information indicating that Russia had decided to take new military action against Ukraine, it was important for the West to act now to prevent that happening. Ukraine is trying to shore up international support in its standoff with Moscow over a build-up of Russian troops on its eastern border and in Crimea. "I have no information to state that the decision to launch a military operation against Ukraine has already been taken. So it can go in either direction now," Kuleba said. "And this is why the reaction of the West, the consolidated reaction of the West, is so important now, to prevent Putin ... from making that decision." Kyiv and Moscow have traded blame for a collapse in the ceasefire in the eastern Donbass region, where Ukrainian troops have battled Russian-backed forces in a conflict Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people since 2014. Kuleba said he asked Washington to supply "powerful means of electronic warfare" to counter Russia's capacity to jam Ukrainian communications when he met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week. He also revealed he had urged a meeting of European Union foreign ministers on Monday to consider "banning Russia from SWIFT" as part of a package of new economic sanctions if Russia escalated the situation. Western diplomacy had helped restrain Russia but everything "will depend on whether they're ready to ... follow their words with deeds," Kuleba said. He said Ukraine had not received a response from the Kremlin to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's invitation to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Tuesday for talks in the Donbass conflict zone. Putin on Wednesday warned the West not to cross Russia's "red lines", saying Moscow would respond swiftly and harshly to any provocations. "I read the message of President Putin the following way: 'we will be crossing your red lines, but you are not allowed to cross our red lines, and we will be defining where our red lines are,'" Kuleba said.

Ukraine to allies: West must act now to ensure no new Russia military offensive

The border situation in Russia-Ukraine could turn into a full-blown war any moment.

Russians have deployed tens of thousands of troops on the border with Ukraine, and the US says Russia's military buildup is bigger than in 2014.

It was then when Russia had annexed Crimea from Ukraine.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-russia-is-massing-120000-troops-along-the-ukraine-border-379129/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has invited his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin for talks.

But the Russian president is in no mood for a compromise.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-president-zelenskiy-asks-putin-to-meet-him-for-peace-talks-in-conflict-zone-378900">Ukraine's President Zelenskiy asks Putin to meet him for peace talks in conflict zone</a>

There are satellite images that show the Russian military activity in Crimea.

They show how Russia is stepping up its deployments near Ukraine with aircraft, vehicles at airbases and training areas.

Ukraine assesses that Russia will soon have more than 120,000 troops on the border.

Left with no options, Zelensky sent a message from Kiev to Moscow, inviting Putin for talks.&nbsp;

But, it doesn't look like Moscow wants a dialogue.

Tensions escalated this week when Russia carried out more military exercises in the Black Sea.

Reports say the Russians are planning to block parts of these waters, a move that could impact access to Ukrainian ports.

Those living near the borders are afraid and many people have begun to leave their homes.

People who are still around fear that war could soon break out.

For the US, Russia still remains the aggressor.

Ukraine's other ally, the European Union, believes it would take just a spark to set off a confrontation.

An assessment that was validated by Putin himself.

The Russian president used his annual state of the union speech to deliver a warning to the West.

The Russian military build-up has been going on for weeks now, but what's motivating Moscow's aggression still remains unclear.

Either Russia is posturing&nbsp;by putting pressure on Kiev, or this is a serious bid to launch an offensive against Ukraine, a former state of the erstwhile Soviet Union.

Either way, it is another test for US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>.

The border situation in Russia-Ukraine could turn into a full-blown war any moment. Russians have deployed tens of thousands of troops on the border with Ukraine, and the US says Russia's military buildup is bigger than in 2014.

The border situation in Russia-Ukraine could turn into a full-blown war any moment. Russians have deployed tens of thousands of troops on the border with Ukraine, and the US says Russia's military buildup is bigger than in 2014. It was then when Russia had annexed Crimea from Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has invited his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin for talks. But the Russian president is in no mood for a compromise. Also read | Ukraine's President Zelenskiy asks Putin to meet him for peace talks in conflict zone There are satellite images that show the Russian military activity in Crimea. They show how Russia is stepping up its deployments near Ukraine with aircraft, vehicles at airbases and training areas. Ukraine assesses that Russia will soon have more than 120,000 troops on the border. Left with no options, Zelensky sent a message from Kiev to Moscow, inviting Putin for talks. But, it doesn't look like Moscow wants a dialogue. Tensions escalated this week when Russia carried out more military exercises in the Black Sea. Reports say the Russians are planning to block parts of these waters, a move that could impact access to Ukrainian ports. Those living near the borders are afraid and many people have begun to leave their homes. People who are still around fear that war could soon break out. For the US, Russia still remains the aggressor. Ukraine's other ally, the European Union, believes it would take just a spark to set off a confrontation. An assessment that was validated by Putin himself. The Russian president used his annual state of the union speech to deliver a warning to the West. The Russian military build-up has been going on for weeks now, but what's motivating Moscow's aggression still remains unclear. Either Russia is posturing by putting pressure on Kiev, or this is a serious bid to launch an offensive against Ukraine, a former state of the erstwhile Soviet Union. Either way, it is another test for US President Joe Biden.

As Ukraine-Russia crisis worsens, threat of war looms

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday said that the country will withdraw troops from military drills near Ukraine.&nbsp;

"I believe that the goals of snap checks have been reached," Shoigu said during exercises in Russia-annexed Crimea, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-security-service-says-it-has-detained-60-pro-russian-protesters-379222/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He also added that he asked the troops involved in the exercise to start returning to "permanent bases" the following day.&nbsp;

Earlier, Shoigu via a helicopter oversaw the number of security personnel and equipment deployed in Crimea on Thursday.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-allies-west-must-act-now-to-ensure-no-new-russia-military-offensive-379190">Ukraine to allies: West must act now to ensure no new Russia military offensive</a>

He also checked the readiness of the naval and ground troops, a news agency Reuters report said.&nbsp;

Interfax news agency reported that the drills involved over 10,000 soldiers and more than 40 warships.

The drills come amid the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine's Western allies, who have expressed concerns about a build-up of Russian forces on the border and military exercises in Crimea.

Russian news agency last week reported mentioning the defence ministry that Kremlin aims to close parts of the Black Sea to foreign military official ships for six months from Saturday.

Ukraine's foreign minister earlier on Thursday asked Western partners to impose new sanctions on Kremlin, including removing the country from the global SWIFT bank payments system. &nbsp;

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday said that the country will withdraw troops from military drills near Ukraine. "I believe that the goals of snap checks have been reached," Shoigu said during exercises in Russia-annexed Crimea, as quoted by news agency AFP.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday said that the country will withdraw troops from military drills near Ukraine. "I believe that the goals of snap checks have been reached," Shoigu said during exercises in Russia-annexed Crimea, as quoted by news agency AFP. Watch | He also added that he asked the troops involved in the exercise to start returning to "permanent bases" the following day. Earlier, Shoigu via a helicopter oversaw the number of security personnel and equipment deployed in Crimea on Thursday. Also read | Ukraine to allies: West must act now to ensure no new Russia military offensive He also checked the readiness of the naval and ground troops, a news agency Reuters report said. Interfax news agency reported that the drills involved over 10,000 soldiers and more than 40 warships. The drills come amid the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine's Western allies, who have expressed concerns about a build-up of Russian forces on the border and military exercises in Crimea. Russian news agency last week reported mentioning the defence ministry that Kremlin aims to close parts of the Black Sea to foreign military official ships for six months from Saturday. Ukraine's foreign minister earlier on Thursday asked Western partners to impose new sanctions on Kremlin, including removing the country from the global SWIFT bank payments system.

Russia to withdraw troops from military drills in Crimea

Ukraine's state security service said on Wednesday it detained around 60 people that pro-Russian political forces had sent to stage protests in Kharkiv

Ukraine security service says it has detained 60 pro-Russian protesters

Zelensky extended the invitation on Tuesday night during a public address, urging Putin to restore a ceasefire in the region where he said "millions of lives" are at stake.

Ukrainian President Zelensky invites Russia's Putin to meet

Russia has concentrated more than 150,000 troops on Ukraine's border and in annexed Crimea, the EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell said on Monday after EU foreign ministers were briefed by Ukraine's foreign minister.&nbsp;

"It is more than 150,000 Russian troops massing on the Ukrainian borders and in Crimea. The risk of further escalation is evident," Borrell said, declining to give a source for the figure.&nbsp;

He said no new economic sanctions or expulsions of Russian diplomats were planned for the time being, despite saying that the military build-up on Ukraine's borders was the largest ever.&nbsp;

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, after addressing EU foreign ministers, called on the EU to impose new sanctions on Russia.&nbsp;

Tensions between Moscow and Kyiv have been rising amid the military build-up and clashes in eastern Ukraine between the army and pro-Russian separatists.&nbsp;

Earlier, Russia reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea and sent two warships. These warships transited the Bosphorus on Saturday along with 15 smaller vessels. These monoeuvres have come at a time when Russia-Ukraine relations are strained over Russian military presence on its border with the country.&nbsp;

Moscow calls the huge troop buildup a temporary defensive exercise.&nbsp;

The Russian warships that transited the Bosphorus are Ropucha-class landing ships from Russia's Northern fleet. The ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for the coastal assault.&nbsp;

More Russian naval reinforcements in the form of two more landing ships, this time from Russia's Baltic Fleet, are expected to imminently transit the Bosphorus.&nbsp;

The RIA news agency on Saturday also reported that 15 smaller vessels from Russia's Caspian Flotilla have completed their transfer to the Black Sea as part of an exercise.&nbsp;

In a further sign of heightened tensions in the region, a ship carrying logistics trucks and equipment for NATO forces in Romania transited the Bosphorus on Friday evening. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Russia has concentrated more than 150,000 troops on Ukraine's border and in annexed Crimea, the EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell said on Monday after EU foreign ministers were briefed by Ukraine's foreign minister.

Russia has concentrated more than 150,000 troops on Ukraine's border and in annexed Crimea, the EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell said on Monday after EU foreign ministers were briefed by Ukraine's foreign minister. "It is more than 150,000 Russian troops massing on the Ukrainian borders and in Crimea. The risk of further escalation is evident," Borrell said, declining to give a source for the figure. He said no new economic sanctions or expulsions of Russian diplomats were planned for the time being, despite saying that the military build-up on Ukraine's borders was the largest ever. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, after addressing EU foreign ministers, called on the EU to impose new sanctions on Russia. Tensions between Moscow and Kyiv have been rising amid the military build-up and clashes in eastern Ukraine between the army and pro-Russian separatists. Earlier, Russia reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea and sent two warships. These warships transited the Bosphorus on Saturday along with 15 smaller vessels. These monoeuvres have come at a time when Russia-Ukraine relations are strained over Russian military presence on its border with the country. Moscow calls the huge troop buildup a temporary defensive exercise. The Russian warships that transited the Bosphorus are Ropucha-class landing ships from Russia's Northern fleet. The ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for the coastal assault. More Russian naval reinforcements in the form of two more landing ships, this time from Russia's Baltic Fleet, are expected to imminently transit the Bosphorus. The RIA news agency on Saturday also reported that 15 smaller vessels from Russia's Caspian Flotilla have completed their transfer to the Black Sea as part of an exercise. In a further sign of heightened tensions in the region, a ship carrying logistics trucks and equipment for NATO forces in Romania transited the Bosphorus on Friday evening. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia amassed over 150,000 troops along Ukraine border, says top EU diplomat Borrell  

Ukrainian soldiers gearing up to repel Russian attack, if any, along the border. Although international pressure is increasing on Russia, Ukrainian soldiers say that they ready to counter any situation.

"We should only count on ourselves," Taras Mykytsey, a 52-year-old soldier, told AFP in the frontline village of Zaytseve north of the separatist stronghold Donetsk.

The separatists, who have carved out two "People's Republics" in eastern Ukraine, are backed by Russia.

"While we are waiting for something to be sent to us, Putin will not wait," added Mykytsey, sporting a helmet and a bulletproof vest.

Yuriy, a 29-year-old senior sergeant based near the town of Shchastya in the neighbouring Lugansk region, struck a similar note, saying he did not expect Western boots on the ground any time soon.

"What foreign country would want to send its people to their death?" he said.

Yuriy, who declined to give his last name, added that the Russian president would not buckle.

Faced with the largest deployment of Russian troops on Ukraine's borders since 2014, President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested more tangible help from the West, but many Ukrainian troops say they know they are on their own. The soldiers are sceptical that US sanctions and NATO warnings would have any effect on Russia.

US President Joe Biden has pledged his "unwavering support" to Zelensky, and Washington this week hit Moscow with new sanctions over US election interference and other hostile activity.

After talks in Paris on Friday with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the Ukranian leader called for a four-way summit with Putin and the resumption of a ceasefire upended by a recent spate of clashes between Kiev troops and the separatists.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian soldiers gearing up to repel Russian attack, if any, along the border. Although international pressure is increasing on Russia, Ukrainian soldiers say that they ready to counter any situation.

Ukrainian soldiers gearing up to repel Russian attack, if any, along the border. Although international pressure is increasing on Russia, Ukrainian soldiers say that they ready to counter any situation. "We should only count on ourselves," Taras Mykytsey, a 52-year-old soldier, told AFP in the frontline village of Zaytseve north of the separatist stronghold Donetsk. The separatists, who have carved out two "People's Republics" in eastern Ukraine, are backed by Russia. "While we are waiting for something to be sent to us, Putin will not wait," added Mykytsey, sporting a helmet and a bulletproof vest. Yuriy, a 29-year-old senior sergeant based near the town of Shchastya in the neighbouring Lugansk region, struck a similar note, saying he did not expect Western boots on the ground any time soon. "What foreign country would want to send its people to their death?" he said. Yuriy, who declined to give his last name, added that the Russian president would not buckle. Faced with the largest deployment of Russian troops on Ukraine's borders since 2014, President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested more tangible help from the West, but many Ukrainian troops say they know they are on their own. The soldiers are sceptical that US sanctions and NATO warnings would have any effect on Russia. US President Joe Biden has pledged his "unwavering support" to Zelensky, and Washington this week hit Moscow with new sanctions over US election interference and other hostile activity. After talks in Paris on Friday with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the Ukranian leader called for a four-way summit with Putin and the resumption of a ceasefire upended by a recent spate of clashes between Kiev troops and the separatists. (With inputs from agencies)

Ready to repel Russia, say Ukrainian troops

British warships will sail for the Black Sea in May amid rising tensions between Ukraine and Russia, the Sunday Times newspaper reported, citing senior naval sources.&nbsp;

The deployment is aimed at showing solidarity with Ukraine and Britain's NATO allies, the newspaper reported.&nbsp;

One Type 45 destroyer armed with anti-aircraft missiles and an anti-submarine Type 23 frigate will leave the Royal Navy's carrier task group in the Mediterranean and head through the Bosphorus into the Black Sea, according to the report.&nbsp;

RAF F-35B Lightning stealth jets and Merlin submarine-hunting helicopters will stand ready on the task group's flag ship, the carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, to support the warships in the Black Sea, the report added.&nbsp;

Tensions between Moscow and Kyiv have been rising amid a build-up of Russian troops along the border and clashes in eastern Ukraine between the army and pro-Russian separatists.&nbsp;

Officials at the UK Ministry of Defence were not immediately available for comment. &nbsp;

A ministry spokesman told the newspaper that the UK government was working closely with Ukraine to monitor the situation and continued to call on Russia to de-escalate.&nbsp;

"The UK and our international allies are unwavering in our support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity", the newspaper quoted the spokesman as saying.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

British warships will sail for the Black Sea in May amid rising tensions between Ukraine and Russia, the Sunday Times newspaper reported, citing senior naval sources.

British warships will sail for the Black Sea in May amid rising tensions between Ukraine and Russia, the Sunday Times newspaper reported, citing senior naval sources. The deployment is aimed at showing solidarity with Ukraine and Britain's NATO allies, the newspaper reported. One Type 45 destroyer armed with anti-aircraft missiles and an anti-submarine Type 23 frigate will leave the Royal Navy's carrier task group in the Mediterranean and head through the Bosphorus into the Black Sea, according to the report. RAF F-35B Lightning stealth jets and Merlin submarine-hunting helicopters will stand ready on the task group's flag ship, the carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, to support the warships in the Black Sea, the report added. Tensions between Moscow and Kyiv have been rising amid a build-up of Russian troops along the border and clashes in eastern Ukraine between the army and pro-Russian separatists. Officials at the UK Ministry of Defence were not immediately available for comment. A ministry spokesman told the newspaper that the UK government was working closely with Ukraine to monitor the situation and continued to call on Russia to de-escalate. "The UK and our international allies are unwavering in our support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity", the newspaper quoted the spokesman as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

UK warships to head for Black Sea in May as tensions rise: Report 

Russia on Saturday expelled a Ukrainian diplomat who it said was caught "red-handed" trying to obtain sensitive information. Although Russia has detained a number of Ukrainian nationals in recent years, expulsion of a diplomat is rare and is being seen as sign of sharply rising tensions between the two countries.

"A Ukrainian diplomat, a consul of Ukraine's Consulate General in Saint Petersburg, Alexander Sosonyuk, has been detained by Russia's FSB," the security service said in a statement, using the Russian language spelling of his name.

The diplomat was detained on Friday, the security service said. Kiev said the diplomat had spent several hours in detention.

Russian foreign ministry said later on Saturday that it had summoned Ukraine's charge d'affaires Vasyl Pokotylo and told him that the Ukranian diplomat had 72 hours to leave the country "beginning April 19"

"The Russian side pointed to the inadmissibility of such kind of activity," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

Russia's domestic intelligence agency said that Sosnyuk had been caught "red-handed" during a meeting with a Russian national as he sought to receive "classified" information.&nbsp;

"Such activity is not compatible with his diplomatic status and is of clearly hostile nature towards the Russian Federation," the FSB said.

Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have seen sharp escalation in recent weeks. On Saturday, Russia reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea by sending two warships. These ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for assault landings.

Ukraine has been accusing Russia of having built up military presence on its borders to destroy "Ukrainian statehood"

Moscow claims that the troop build-up is defensive in nature.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Saturday expelled a Ukrainian diplomat who it said was caught "red-handed" trying to obtain sensitive information. Although Russia has detained a number of Ukrainian nationals in recent years, expulsion of a diplomat is rare and is being seen as sign of sharply rising tensions between the two countries.

Russia on Saturday expelled a Ukrainian diplomat who it said was caught "red-handed" trying to obtain sensitive information. Although Russia has detained a number of Ukrainian nationals in recent years, expulsion of a diplomat is rare and is being seen as sign of sharply rising tensions between the two countries. "A Ukrainian diplomat, a consul of Ukraine's Consulate General in Saint Petersburg, Alexander Sosonyuk, has been detained by Russia's FSB," the security service said in a statement, using the Russian language spelling of his name. The diplomat was detained on Friday, the security service said. Kiev said the diplomat had spent several hours in detention. Russian foreign ministry said later on Saturday that it had summoned Ukraine's charge d'affaires Vasyl Pokotylo and told him that the Ukranian diplomat had 72 hours to leave the country "beginning April 19" "The Russian side pointed to the inadmissibility of such kind of activity," the foreign ministry said in a statement. Russia's domestic intelligence agency said that Sosnyuk had been caught "red-handed" during a meeting with a Russian national as he sought to receive "classified" information. "Such activity is not compatible with his diplomatic status and is of clearly hostile nature towards the Russian Federation," the FSB said. Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have seen sharp escalation in recent weeks. On Saturday, Russia reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea by sending two warships. These ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for assault landings. Ukraine has been accusing Russia of having built up military presence on its borders to destroy "Ukrainian statehood" Moscow claims that the troop build-up is defensive in nature. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia expels Ukrainian diplomat after detaining him amid border tensions

Russia on Saturday reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea and sent two warships. These warships transited the Bosphorus on Saturday along with 15 smaller vessels. These monoeuvres have come at a time when Russia-Ukraine relations are strained over Russian military presence on its border with the country.

Moscow calls the huge troop buildup a temporary defensive exercise.

The Russian warships that transited the Bosphorus are Ropucha-class landing ships from Russia's Northern fleet. The ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for the coastal assault.

More Russian naval reinforcements in the form of two more landing ships, this time from Russia's Baltic Fleet, are expected to imminently transit the Bosphorus.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-may-acquire-nuclear-weapons-amid-conflict-with-russia-diplomat-suggests-378137">Ukraine may acquire nuclear weapons amid conflict with Russia, diplomat suggests</a>

The RIA news agency on Saturday also reported that 15 smaller vessels from Russia's Caspian Flotilla have completed their transfer to the Black Sea as part of an exercise.

In a further sign of heightened tensions in the region, a ship carrying logistics trucks and equipment for NATO forces in Romania transited the Bosphorus on Friday evening. This was reported by Reuters.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Saturday reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea and sent two warships. These warships transited the Bosphorus on Saturday along with 15 smaller vessels.

Russia on Saturday reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea and sent two warships. These warships transited the Bosphorus on Saturday along with 15 smaller vessels. These monoeuvres have come at a time when Russia-Ukraine relations are strained over Russian military presence on its border with the country. Moscow calls the huge troop buildup a temporary defensive exercise. The Russian warships that transited the Bosphorus are Ropucha-class landing ships from Russia's Northern fleet. The ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for the coastal assault. More Russian naval reinforcements in the form of two more landing ships, this time from Russia's Baltic Fleet, are expected to imminently transit the Bosphorus. Also Read | Ukraine may acquire nuclear weapons amid conflict with Russia, diplomat suggests The RIA news agency on Saturday also reported that 15 smaller vessels from Russia's Caspian Flotilla have completed their transfer to the Black Sea as part of an exercise. In a further sign of heightened tensions in the region, a ship carrying logistics trucks and equipment for NATO forces in Romania transited the Bosphorus on Friday evening. This was reported by Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia sends two warships to Black Sea amid tensions with Ukraine

Kremlin on Friday urged French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to ask Ukraine to adhere to ceasefire agreements in its conflicts with pro-Russian separatists. Both Macron and Merkel are due to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in a show of support.

Relations between Ukraine and Russia have increasingly come under strain due to Russian troop buildup on the Ukraine-Russia border and situation in Donbass region of Ukraine.

The build-up on the northern and eastern borders, as well as on the Crimean peninsula annexed by Moscow in 2014, comes amid a spike in violence along the front line between pro-Russia separatists and Ukrainian forces in the east of the country.

The German and French leaders should communicate to the Ukrainian leadership the "need to decisively stop any provocative actions on the contact line and emphasise the need for an unconditional observance of the ceasefire regime," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"There are fewer reports of ceasefire violations coming, and indeed the number of violations has decreased," Peskov noted.&nbsp;

But he added that it was necessary to continue "scrupulously monitoring the situation".

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) 
&nbsp;

Kremlin on Friday urged French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to ask Ukraine to adhere to ceasefire agreements in its conflicts with pro-Russian separatists.

Kremlin on Friday urged French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to ask Ukraine to adhere to ceasefire agreements in its conflicts with pro-Russian separatists. Both Macron and Merkel are due to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in a show of support. Relations between Ukraine and Russia have increasingly come under strain due to Russian troop buildup on the Ukraine-Russia border and situation in Donbass region of Ukraine. The build-up on the northern and eastern borders, as well as on the Crimean peninsula annexed by Moscow in 2014, comes amid a spike in violence along the front line between pro-Russia separatists and Ukrainian forces in the east of the country. The German and French leaders should communicate to the Ukrainian leadership the "need to decisively stop any provocative actions on the contact line and emphasise the need for an unconditional observance of the ceasefire regime," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "There are fewer reports of ceasefire violations coming, and indeed the number of violations has decreased," Peskov noted. But he added that it was necessary to continue "scrupulously monitoring the situation". 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)

Ease Ukraine's 'provocative actions', Russia urges Macron and Merkel

NATO has warned Russia against military build up near the Ukrainian border as the alliance's Chief Jens Stoltenberg and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Ukrainian delegations in Brussels.

NATO warned Russia against military build up near Ukrainian border

Politics is all about possibilities. Nothing is forever, neither friendships, nor rivalries. More than 70 years back, the United States dropped two nuclear bombs on Japan. It was carnage. At least 200,000 Japanese were wiped out. Despite that, the US and Japan are not sworn enemies. Instead, they have cultivated excellent ties. Today, Tokyo is America's most trusted Asian ally. &nbsp;

What's the point we're trying to make? Political relationships are always changing and this change is not natural. It is the product of hard work, compromises, understandings behind the scenes and a lot of haggling. &nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-vs-russia-are-we-heading-towards-cold-war-20-377630/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The question is, are Russia and US ready for this diplomatic dance? For decades, Moscow was Washington's public enemy number one. Every Hollywood movie had a Russian villain. Every US President saw Russia as the final frontier, but the rivalry has diluted in recent years. &nbsp;

There are two reasons for this. One that the US has pulled ahead of Russia as the two countries are not equal anymore, and number two is the rise of China. The new Washington consensus is clear. Beijing is the bigger threat to the United States. So, where does this leave Russia? Is it an old foe? Is it a bystander to the emerging cold war? Is it a power that can be co-opted against a bigger adversary?&nbsp;

These questions are important as Joe Biden wants to meet Vladimir Putin. He wants to settle differences with Russia. It's easier said than done. &nbsp;

That's because we are talking about an endless list of differences and disputes. Russia supports every single American rival. It trades with Iran, it buys oil from Venezuela, it backs the Assad regime in Syria, and don't forget, Russian hackers tried to meddle in America's presidential elections. First in 2016 and then again last year. &nbsp;

A sit-down between Biden and Putin will not solve these issues because at the centre of it is a trust deficit. And Biden's reputation doesn't help. He's a known Russia hawk. He is from the cold war generation. A generation that was taught to live in fear of a Soviet missile. Which is why he talks about a tough competition with China but doesn't flinch before calling Putin "a killer".

So, is there no scope for cooperation?&nbsp;

Russia and the US recently renewed a missile treaty. They do see eye-to-eye on nuclear weapons. What brings them on the same page? The idea of mutual survival, more than anything else. Nonetheless, it counts as cooperation. So going forward, Moscow and Washington have a lot to discuss. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Climate change is a key issue, so is the Arctic. Russia has major energy goals in the Arctic but how will the world carve up this region? It's the next frontier. US-Russia talks will be vital to peace in the Arctic. What about China? Where does China fit in?&nbsp;

Moscow and Beijing are in a state of undeclared alliance. They support the same regimes. They are both sanctioned by the Americans, and their leaders have a great personal equation. They gift each other ice cream and flip pancakes together. Xi Jinping once called Putin his best friend. The Chinese President could probably count all his friends in a single hand but beyond the praises, is there substance to this relationship?&nbsp;

Trade between the two has grown but political and military integration is missing. In the West, there is NATO and&nbsp;Five Eyes alliance, but there is no&nbsp;Sino-Russian equivalent. At least, not yet. So, Putin's aggression in eastern Ukraine is largely a solo mission. NATO is closing ranks against him. US warships are heading to the Black Sea. If this is an attempt at war, it is not a good one.&nbsp;

To the south of eastern Ukraine is Turkey, a NATO ally, albiet a difficult one. To the south-west, Bulgaria and Romania, again Nato allies. Move further west, and you reach Nato heartland, France, Germany and the UK. So, the doomsday predictions may be a bit far-fetched. Russia isn't even trying to hide its deployments and that's not a good strategy but is this a prelude to war? Or is this just Putin trying to test Joe Biden's resolve?&nbsp;

How far is Joe Biden willing to go to protect Ukraine? Will he bring Ukraine into the NATO? As vice president, Biden witnessed the annexation of Crimea. Today, the Russian buildup is almost at the same level. Moscow may not pull the trigger this time, but Biden is not taking that chance. At 78, he has the appetite for one cold war, not two.

For a change, Washington is choosing its battles.&nbsp;

Politics is all about possibilities. Nothing is forever, neither friendships, nor rivalries. More than 70 years back, the United States dropped two nuclear bombs on Japan.

Politics is all about possibilities. Nothing is forever, neither friendships, nor rivalries. More than 70 years back, the United States dropped two nuclear bombs on Japan. It was carnage. At least 200,000 Japanese were wiped out. Despite that, the US and Japan are not sworn enemies. Instead, they have cultivated excellent ties. Today, Tokyo is America's most trusted Asian ally. What's the point we're trying to make? Political relationships are always changing and this change is not natural. It is the product of hard work, compromises, understandings behind the scenes and a lot of haggling. The question is, are Russia and US ready for this diplomatic dance? For decades, Moscow was Washington's public enemy number one. Every Hollywood movie had a Russian villain. Every US President saw Russia as the final frontier, but the rivalry has diluted in recent years. There are two reasons for this. One that the US has pulled ahead of Russia as the two countries are not equal anymore, and number two is the rise of China. The new Washington consensus is clear. Beijing is the bigger threat to the United States. So, where does this leave Russia? Is it an old foe? Is it a bystander to the emerging cold war? Is it a power that can be co-opted against a bigger adversary? These questions are important as Joe Biden wants to meet Vladimir Putin. He wants to settle differences with Russia. It's easier said than done. That's because we are talking about an endless list of differences and disputes. Russia supports every single American rival. It trades with Iran, it buys oil from Venezuela, it backs the Assad regime in Syria, and don't forget, Russian hackers tried to meddle in America's presidential elections. First in 2016 and then again last year. A sit-down between Biden and Putin will not solve these issues because at the centre of it is a trust deficit. And Biden's reputation doesn't help. He's a known Russia hawk. He is from the cold war generation. A generation that was taught to live in fear of a Soviet missile. Which is why he talks about a tough competition with China but doesn't flinch before calling Putin "a killer". So, is there no scope for cooperation? Russia and the US recently renewed a missile treaty. They do see eye-to-eye on nuclear weapons. What brings them on the same page? The idea of mutual survival, more than anything else. Nonetheless, it counts as cooperation. So going forward, Moscow and Washington have a lot to discuss. Climate change is a key issue, so is the Arctic. Russia has major energy goals in the Arctic but how will the world carve up this region? It's the next frontier. US-Russia talks will be vital to peace in the Arctic. What about China? Where does China fit in? Moscow and Beijing are in a state of undeclared alliance. They support the same regimes. They are both sanctioned by the Americans, and their leaders have a great personal equation. They gift each other ice cream and flip pancakes together. Xi Jinping once called Putin his best friend. The Chinese President could probably count all his friends in a single hand but beyond the praises, is there substance to this relationship? Trade between the two has grown but political and military integration is missing. In the West, there is NATO and Five Eyes alliance, but there is no Sino-Russian equivalent. At least, not yet. So, Putin's aggression in eastern Ukraine is largely a solo mission. NATO is closing ranks against him. US warships are heading to the Black Sea. If this is an attempt at war, it is not a good one. To the south of eastern Ukraine is Turkey, a NATO ally, albiet a difficult one. To the south-west, Bulgaria and Romania, again Nato allies. Move further west, and you reach Nato heartland, France, Germany and the UK. So, the doomsday predictions may be a bit far-fetched. Russia isn't even trying to hide its deployments and that's not a good strategy but is this a prelude to war? Or is this just Putin trying to test Joe Biden's resolve? How far is Joe Biden willing to go to protect Ukraine? Will he bring Ukraine into the NATO? As vice president, Biden witnessed the annexation of Crimea. Today, the Russian buildup is almost at the same level. Moscow may not pull the trigger this time, but Biden is not taking that chance. At 78, he has the appetite for one cold war, not two. For a change, Washington is choosing its battles.

Will US, Russia fight it out or resolve issues? 

As tensions around the Ukraine border spike, Joe Biden has proposed a face to face meeting with Vladimir Putin to settle all differences. Can two leaders work together after having called each other killers? WION's Palki Sharma tells you what's at stake.

Gravitas: US vs Russia: Are we heading towards Cold War 2.0?

Amid growing tensions around the Ukraine border, Joe Biden dispatched his top ministers to Europe. NATO has reaffirmed its support to Ukraine. 500 more US soldiers will be sent to Germany. Will this be enough to ensure a de-escalation from Russia? WION's Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: Amid Ukraine tensions, US to deploy 500 more soldiers in Germany

NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg called on Russia to pull back troops from Ukraine’s border. He also said that NATO allies fully support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity

NATO Chief: Russia must de-escalate immediately from Ukraine's border

Russia on Thursday said that the US sanctions for alleged election interference and hacking will "not help" a possible summit between US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

The reaction came after the US media reported that Washington on Thursday will impose sanctions on over 30 Russian entities, expel more than 10 Russian diplomats&nbsp;from the US, and push an existing ban on US banks transacting in Russian government debt.

Watch |&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-warned-russia-against-military-build-up-near-ukrainian-border-377642/embed" width="560"></iframe>

"What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Biden invited Putin in a phone call for a summit on the neutral ground after tensions between the West and Russia intensified in recent weeks over the conflict in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-slap-new-sanctions-on-russia-for-election-interference-cyber-attack-sources-377685">US to slap new sanctions on Russia for election interference, cyber attack: Sources</a>

The Kremlin spokesperson, however, said that it will up to both the president to decide whether the summit could go ahead or not.&nbsp;

A Russian troop formation on the Ukrainian border, where the government forces have been fighting pro-Russia separatists since 2014 has caused concerns in the West and issued warnings by NATO.&nbsp;

Though, in the Putin-Biden phone call, both leaders called for continual dialogue after ties between both the nations reached a new low when Biden described his Russian counterpart as a "killer" last month.

&nbsp; 
(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Thursday said that the US sanctions for alleged election interference and hacking will "not help" a possible summit between US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

Russia on Thursday said that the US sanctions for alleged election interference and hacking will "not help" a possible summit between US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The reaction came after the US media reported that Washington on Thursday will impose sanctions on over 30 Russian entities, expel more than 10 Russian diplomats from the US, and push an existing ban on US banks transacting in Russian government debt. Watch | "What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP. On Tuesday, Biden invited Putin in a phone call for a summit on the neutral ground after tensions between the West and Russia intensified in recent weeks over the conflict in Ukraine. Also read | US to slap new sanctions on Russia for election interference, cyber attack: Sources The Kremlin spokesperson, however, said that it will up to both the president to decide whether the summit could go ahead or not. A Russian troop formation on the Ukrainian border, where the government forces have been fighting pro-Russia separatists since 2014 has caused concerns in the West and issued warnings by NATO. Though, in the Putin-Biden phone call, both leaders called for continual dialogue after ties between both the nations reached a new low when Biden described his Russian counterpart as a "killer" last month. (With inputs from agencies)

US sanctions on Russia won't 'help' Biden-Putin summit: Kremlin

Amid increasing rift between the United States and Russia over Kremlin border army buildup, US President Joe Biden has proposed a high-level meeting with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. Mr Biden reiterated the U.S.’s “unwavering commitment” to Ukraine’s sovereignty according to the White House.

US Prez Joe Biden proposes a high-level summit with Vladimir Putin

Is a war inevitable between Russia & Ukraine? The situation has become quite precarious, but both sides deny stoking up tensions. What's the reality on ground? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: The Russia-Ukraine conflict explained

Moscow has accused the United States and other NATO countries of turning Ukraine into a "powder keg ". Russia also added that countries are increasing their arms supplies to Ukraine.

Moscow accuses US, NATO nations of turning Ukraine into 'powder keg'

NATO and the West must act quickly to prevent an escalation of violence between Ukraine and Russia, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Tuesday, saying further sanctions against Moscow and more military help to Kyiv could help. &nbsp;

"At the operational level, we need measures which will deter Russia and which will contain its aggressive intentions. This could be ... a new round of sanctions which would raise the price of Russian aggression," Kuleba told a news conference at NATO alongside NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg.&nbsp;

"This could be direct support aimed at strengthening Ukraine's defence capabilities. Because we do know that Russia spares no effort to prevent third countries from cooperating with Ukraine in the defence sector. Russia is working hard to undermine our defence capabilities."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Tuesday that the Western alliance, and not Moscow, would decide whether Ukraine joins in the future.&nbsp;

"It is for the 30 NATO allies to decide when Ukraine is ready for membership. No one else has any right to try to meddle or to interfere in that process," Stoltenberg told a news conference alongside Kyiv's top diplomat.&nbsp;

"Russia is now trying to reestablish some kind of sphere of influence where they try to decide what neighbours can do," Stoltenberg said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

NATO and the West must act quickly to prevent an escalation of violence between Ukraine and Russia, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Tuesday, saying further sanctions against Moscow and more military help to Kyiv could help.

NATO and the West must act quickly to prevent an escalation of violence between Ukraine and Russia, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Tuesday, saying further sanctions against Moscow and more military help to Kyiv could help. "At the operational level, we need measures which will deter Russia and which will contain its aggressive intentions. This could be ... a new round of sanctions which would raise the price of Russian aggression," Kuleba told a news conference at NATO alongside NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. "This could be direct support aimed at strengthening Ukraine's defence capabilities. Because we do know that Russia spares no effort to prevent third countries from cooperating with Ukraine in the defence sector. Russia is working hard to undermine our defence capabilities." Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Tuesday that the Western alliance, and not Moscow, would decide whether Ukraine joins in the future. "It is for the 30 NATO allies to decide when Ukraine is ready for membership. No one else has any right to try to meddle or to interfere in that process," Stoltenberg told a news conference alongside Kyiv's top diplomat. "Russia is now trying to reestablish some kind of sphere of influence where they try to decide what neighbours can do," Stoltenberg said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine minister calls for military help, more sanctions on Russia 

ukraine

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