The Russia and Ukraine border tensions continue to escalate despite efforts to defuse it with diplomatic talks. In the latest development, the United States media reports cited intelligence inputs and stated that the Russian military has been ordered to 'attack' Ukraine.&nbsp;

The reports have also added that the military is moving forward with an intention to attack Ukraine. These reports added to the fears of Western countries that Russia will attack at "any time".&nbsp;

As per the reports, it was that intelligence that gave US President Joe Biden the confidence to say on Friday (February 18) he was "convinced" that Russian President Vladimir Putin had decided to invade.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-ready-to-meet-putin-until-the-moment-ukraine-invasion-begins-454912">Biden ready to meet Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins</a>

However, there's no official statement on the reports by several media outlets such as Washington Post, CBS, the New York Times, CNN.&nbsp;

The Washington Post noted: "US intelligence that provided Biden with the confidence to make the assertion came from an order given to Russian subordinates to proceed with a full-scale attack, according to several people familiar with the matter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the matter's sensitivity."&nbsp;&nbsp;

CNN said other signs that might indicate an imminent Russian invasion of Ukraine "have not yet been observed" citing an anonymous source. The source also warned that orders to attack could still be withdrawn, or that the intelligence might have been planted to mislead the West.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-crisis-french-and-russian-foreign-ministers-to-speak-on-monday-454841">Russia-Ukraine crisis: French and Russian foreign ministers to speak on Monday</a>

Russia has placed more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in recent weeks, the United States and Western allies have estimated.&nbsp;

US official told reporters Friday, insisting on anonymity that "forty to fifty per cent (of those troops) are in an attack position. They have uncoiled in tactical assembly in the last 48 hours".&nbsp;

Reports have also quoted a US official, who on Sunday said that Biden's assertion that Putin has made the decision to roll Russian forces into Ukraine was based on intelligence that Russian front-line commanders have been given orders to begin final preparations for an attack.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

The Russia and Ukraine border tensions continue to escalate despite efforts to defuse it with diplomatic talks. In the latest development, the United States media reports cited intelligence inputs and stated that the Russian military has been ordered to 'attack' Ukraine.

The Russia and Ukraine border tensions continue to escalate despite efforts to defuse it with diplomatic talks. In the latest development, the United States media reports cited intelligence inputs and stated that the Russian military has been ordered to 'attack' Ukraine. The reports have also added that the military is moving forward with an intention to attack Ukraine. These reports added to the fears of Western countries that Russia will attack at "any time". As per the reports, it was that intelligence that gave US President Joe Biden the confidence to say on Friday (February 18) he was "convinced" that Russian President Vladimir Putin had decided to invade. ALSO READ | Biden ready to meet Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins However, there's no official statement on the reports by several media outlets such as Washington Post, CBS, the New York Times, CNN. The Washington Post noted: "US intelligence that provided Biden with the confidence to make the assertion came from an order given to Russian subordinates to proceed with a full-scale attack, according to several people familiar with the matter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the matter's sensitivity." CNN said other signs that might indicate an imminent Russian invasion of Ukraine "have not yet been observed" citing an anonymous source. The source also warned that orders to attack could still be withdrawn, or that the intelligence might have been planted to mislead the West. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine crisis: French and Russian foreign ministers to speak on Monday Russia has placed more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in recent weeks, the United States and Western allies have estimated. US official told reporters Friday, insisting on anonymity that "forty to fifty per cent (of those troops) are in an attack position. They have uncoiled in tactical assembly in the last 48 hours". Reports have also quoted a US official, who on Sunday said that Biden's assertion that Putin has made the decision to roll Russian forces into Ukraine was based on intelligence that Russian front-line commanders have been given orders to begin final preparations for an attack. × (With inputs from agencies)

Did Russia give orders to 'attack' Ukraine? US media cites intel inputs that were apparently known to Biden

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov addresses the nation's top security officials during an Security Council meeting on Monday.

Russia has done all to use peaceful tools, says Vladimir Putin

US President Joe Biden seems to have agreed 'in principle' to meet Russia's President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the administration has been clear that "we are committed to pursuing diplomacy until the moment an invasion begins." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-france-agree-to-work-for-an-east-ukraine-ceasefire-joe-biden-willing-to-meet-vladimir-putin-454881" hreflang="en">Russia, France agree to work for east Ukraine ceasefire; Putin, Biden may meet</a>

In Europe, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will meet on Thursday till the invasion doesn't occur. &nbsp;

In a statement, Psaki said, "We are always ready for diplomacy. We are also ready to impose swift and severe consequences should Russia instead choose war. And currently, Russia appears to be continuing preparations for a full-scale assault on Ukraine very soon." &nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron has helped in brokering the potential talks after a day of talks with the two leaders on Sunday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-sovereignty-and-territorial-integrity-must-be-protected-china-454860">Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be protected: China</a>

Meanwhile, Russian-backed rebels in eastern Ukraine said that two civilians were killed in shelling on Monday by the Kyiv government forces, reported Russia's RIA news agency. &nbsp;

The incident occurred late on Sunday, RIA report said citing representatives of the self-proclaimed Luhansk People’s Republic. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden seems to have agreed 'in principle' to meet Russia's President Vladimir Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the administration has been clear that "we are committed to pursuing diplomacy until the moment an invasion begins.

US President Joe Biden seems to have agreed 'in principle' to meet Russia's President Vladimir Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the administration has been clear that "we are committed to pursuing diplomacy until the moment an invasion begins." Also Read: Russia, France agree to work for east Ukraine ceasefire; Putin, Biden may meet In Europe, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will meet on Thursday till the invasion doesn't occur. In a statement, Psaki said, "We are always ready for diplomacy. We are also ready to impose swift and severe consequences should Russia instead choose war. And currently, Russia appears to be continuing preparations for a full-scale assault on Ukraine very soon." French President Emmanuel Macron has helped in brokering the potential talks after a day of talks with the two leaders on Sunday. Also Read | Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be protected: China Meanwhile, Russian-backed rebels in eastern Ukraine said that two civilians were killed in shelling on Monday by the Kyiv government forces, reported Russia's RIA news agency. The incident occurred late on Sunday, RIA report said citing representatives of the self-proclaimed Luhansk People’s Republic. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden ready to meet Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins

Emmanuel Macron called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to make a decision on meeting US counterpart Joe Biden in a summit proposed by France to ease soaring tensions over Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Macron proposes Biden-Putin summit to help defuse tensions

Amid rising Russia and Ukraine tensions, a&nbsp;blast was heard early on Monday in the centre of the city of&nbsp;Donetsk, which is held by Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, Reuters reported citing a witness.&nbsp;

So far, the origin of the blast was unclear.

As per reports, people evacuated from the Moscow-backed breakaway region of Donetsk wait for trains in the southwestern Russian town of Taganrog, to move deeper into the country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-russia-give-orders-to-attack-ukraine-us-media-cites-intel-inputs-that-were-apparently-known-to-biden-454927">Did Russia give orders to 'attack' Ukraine? US media cites intel inputs that were apparently known to Biden</a>

It is important to note that the Moscow-backed separatists have accused Ukraine of planning an offensive into their enclave, and ordered a general mobilisation.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed in principle to a summit over Ukraine. The news about the crucial summit was revealed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who held a telephonic conversation with the Russian leader on Sunday (February 20).&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kremlin on Monday (February 21) said that it is "premature" to organise the Biden-Putin summit over Ukraine.

"It's premature to talk about any specific plans for organising any kind of summits," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, adding that no "concrete plans" had been put in place for a meeting.&nbsp;

Russia has placed more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in recent weeks, the United States and Western allies have estimated.&nbsp;

US official told reporters Friday, insisting on anonymity that "forty to fifty per cent (of those troops) are in an attack position. They have uncoiled in tactical assembly in the last 48 hours".&nbsp;

Reports have also quoted a US official, who on Sunday said that Biden's assertion that Putin has made the decision to roll Russian forces into Ukraine was based on intelligence that Russian front-line commanders have been given orders to begin final preparations for an attack.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Explosions heard in Ukraine's Donetsk, OSCE calls for security meet to discuss de-escalation

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&nbsp;

Amid rising Russia and Ukraine tensions, a blast was heard early on Monday in the centre of the city of Donetsk, which is held by Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, Reuters reported citing a witness.

Amid rising Russia and Ukraine tensions, a blast was heard early on Monday in the centre of the city of Donetsk, which is held by Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, Reuters reported citing a witness. So far, the origin of the blast was unclear. As per reports, people evacuated from the Moscow-backed breakaway region of Donetsk wait for trains in the southwestern Russian town of Taganrog, to move deeper into the country. ALSO READ | Did Russia give orders to 'attack' Ukraine? US media cites intel inputs that were apparently known to Biden It is important to note that the Moscow-backed separatists have accused Ukraine of planning an offensive into their enclave, and ordered a general mobilisation. US President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed in principle to a summit over Ukraine. The news about the crucial summit was revealed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who held a telephonic conversation with the Russian leader on Sunday (February 20). Meanwhile, Kremlin on Monday (February 21) said that it is "premature" to organise the Biden-Putin summit over Ukraine. "It's premature to talk about any specific plans for organising any kind of summits," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, adding that no "concrete plans" had been put in place for a meeting. Russia has placed more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in recent weeks, the United States and Western allies have estimated. US official told reporters Friday, insisting on anonymity that "forty to fifty per cent (of those troops) are in an attack position. They have uncoiled in tactical assembly in the last 48 hours". Reports have also quoted a US official, who on Sunday said that Biden's assertion that Putin has made the decision to roll Russian forces into Ukraine was based on intelligence that Russian front-line commanders have been given orders to begin final preparations for an attack. WATCH | Explosions heard in Ukraine's Donetsk, OSCE calls for security meet to discuss de-escalation ×

Ukraine crisis: Explosion reportedly hits Donetsk airport area; Kremlin says Biden-Putin summit 'premature'

In a phone conversation on Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the need to speed up the search for diplomatic solutions to the worsening crisis in eastern Ukraine, according to the Kremlin.&nbsp;

"In view of the urgency of the situation, the Presidents acknowledged the need to intensify the search for solutions through diplomatic means via the foreign ministries and political advisers to the leaders of the Normandy format," the Kremlin said in a statement.

"These contacts should facilitate the restoration of the ceasefire regime and ensure progress in the settlement of the conflict in Donbass," the Kremlin added.

US President Joe Biden is also willing to meet Russia's Vladimir Putin "at any time" to defuse tensions in the Ukraine war, his top diplomat said Sunday, warning Russia appeared on the verge of invading its neighbor. 
 
Watch | Gravitas Plus | Explained: The Russia-Ukraine crisis

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In a rapid-fire round of US talk shows, Secretary of State Antony Blinken told CNN that "everything we're seeing suggests that this is dead serious, that we are on the brink of an invasion." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-planning-biggest-war-since-1945-says-boris-johnson-454778">Also read | Russia planning biggest war since 1945, says Boris Johnson</a>

"But until the tanks are actually rolling and the planes are flying, we will use every opportunity and every minute we have to see if diplomacy can still dissuade President Putin from carrying this forward."

Blinken told CBS's "Face the Nation" that Biden has made "very clear that he's prepared to meet President Putin at any time, in any format, if that can help prevent a war." 
 
Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-pictures-show-russian-helicopters-still-parked-in-crimea-454505">Satellite pictures show Russian helicopters still parked in Crimea</a>

In a phone conversation on Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the need to speed up the search for diplomatic solutions to the worsening crisis in eastern Ukraine, according to the Kremlin.

In a phone conversation on Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the need to speed up the search for diplomatic solutions to the worsening crisis in eastern Ukraine, according to the Kremlin. "In view of the urgency of the situation, the Presidents acknowledged the need to intensify the search for solutions through diplomatic means via the foreign ministries and political advisers to the leaders of the Normandy format," the Kremlin said in a statement. "These contacts should facilitate the restoration of the ceasefire regime and ensure progress in the settlement of the conflict in Donbass," the Kremlin added. US President Joe Biden is also willing to meet Russia's Vladimir Putin "at any time" to defuse tensions in the Ukraine war, his top diplomat said Sunday, warning Russia appeared on the verge of invading its neighbor. Watch | Gravitas Plus | Explained: The Russia-Ukraine crisis In a rapid-fire round of US talk shows, Secretary of State Antony Blinken told CNN that "everything we're seeing suggests that this is dead serious, that we are on the brink of an invasion." Also read | Russia planning biggest war since 1945, says Boris Johnson "But until the tanks are actually rolling and the planes are flying, we will use every opportunity and every minute we have to see if diplomacy can still dissuade President Putin from carrying this forward." Blinken told CBS's "Face the Nation" that Biden has made "very clear that he's prepared to meet President Putin at any time, in any format, if that can help prevent a war." Also see | Satellite pictures show Russian helicopters still parked in Crimea

Russia, France agree to work for an east Ukraine ceasefire; Joe Biden willing to meet Vladimir Putin

Amid escalating tensions and the war-like situation in eastern Europe,&nbsp;French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov would meet on Monday, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron dialled Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Sunday (February 20) about the situation in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Macron and Putin agreed to work for a ceasefire in eastern Ukraine, Macron's office said, adding the leaders also agreed on "the need to favour a diplomatic solution to the ongoing crisis and to do everything to achieve one".&nbsp;

The office of the French President also stated that Putin and Macron would work "intensely" to allow the Trilateral Contact Group, which includes Ukraine, Russia and the OSCE, to meet "in the next few hours".&nbsp;

The aim of the meeting is said to be getting all interested parties to commit to a ceasefire at the contact line" in eastern Ukraine, where the government troops and pro-Russian separatists are facing each other.&nbsp;

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidMShm6xpBJH9L" /><meta charset="utf-8" />

Both the leaders also agreed that talks between Russia, Ukraine,&nbsp;France&nbsp;and Germany should resume implementing the so-called Minsk protocol which in 2014 had already called for a ceasefire in eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;

Both also agreed to work towards "a high-level meeting with the aim of defining a new peace and security order in Europe", Macron's office said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-belarus-says-russian-forces-to-remain-for-more-drills-454821">Ukraine crisis: Belarus says Russian forces to remain for more drills</a>

On the other hand, stated that both the leaders had an&nbsp;in-depth discussion of&nbsp;the&nbsp;developments around Ukraine as&nbsp;well as&nbsp;developments regarding "long-term legal security guarantees for&nbsp;the&nbsp;Russian Federation".&nbsp;

A Kremlin statement noted that serious concerns were expressed due to&nbsp;the&nbsp;quickly deteriorating situation along the&nbsp;contact line in&nbsp;Donbass. Putin noted that "provocations from Ukrainian militants were the&nbsp;reason for&nbsp;the&nbsp;escalation".&nbsp;

Ahead of the conversation, the French President's office said that the call represented "the final possible and necessary efforts to avoid a major conflict in Ukraine."&nbsp;

This was&nbsp;the fifth telephonic&nbsp;conversation between Putin with his French counterpart since the beginning of this year. Earlier this month on February 7, both the leaders met in person when Macron visited Russia.&nbsp;

The latest call lasted 105 minutes and is termed as the last-ditch effort to avert a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine. Macron has been vouching for diplomatic ways of solving the highly sensitive border crisis.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-pictures-show-russian-helicopters-still-parked-in-crimea-454505">Satellite pictures show Russian helicopters still parked in Crimea</a>

Although, Macron has previously reiterated his determination to preserve Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty.&nbsp;

The call came a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told Macron that he would not respond to what he called Russia's "provocations", according to the Elysee. He said he remained open to "dialogue" with Moscow.&nbsp;

But in a speech to the Munich Security Conference, he also called on Western governments to stop what he said was "a policy of appeasement" towards Putin.&nbsp;

After the conversation with Putin on Sunday, Macron went on to talk with Zelensky on the telephone, the French presidency said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Belarus on Sunday (February 20) said that joint exercises involving&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and Belarus forces were being extended due to tension over Ukraine, despite promises from Moscow that the drills would end this weekend.&nbsp;

The Belarusian defence minister Victor Khrenin said in a statement, "The presidents of Belarus and Russia decided to continue inspections of the readiness of Union State forces."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia maintains 'no plans to invade' as tensions mount over Ukraine crisis

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&nbsp;

Amid escalating tensions and the war-like situation in eastern Europe, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov would meet on Monday, news agency AFP reported.

Amid escalating tensions and the war-like situation in eastern Europe, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov would meet on Monday, news agency AFP reported. French President Emmanuel Macron dialled Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Sunday (February 20) about the situation in Ukraine. Macron and Putin agreed to work for a ceasefire in eastern Ukraine, Macron's office said, adding the leaders also agreed on "the need to favour a diplomatic solution to the ongoing crisis and to do everything to achieve one". The office of the French President also stated that Putin and Macron would work "intensely" to allow the Trilateral Contact Group, which includes Ukraine, Russia and the OSCE, to meet "in the next few hours". The aim of the meeting is said to be getting all interested parties to commit to a ceasefire at the contact line" in eastern Ukraine, where the government troops and pro-Russian separatists are facing each other. Both the leaders also agreed that talks between Russia, Ukraine, France and Germany should resume implementing the so-called Minsk protocol which in 2014 had already called for a ceasefire in eastern Ukraine. Both also agreed to work towards "a high-level meeting with the aim of defining a new peace and security order in Europe", Macron's office said. ALSO READ | Ukraine crisis: Belarus says Russian forces to remain for more drills On the other hand, stated that both the leaders had an in-depth discussion of the developments around Ukraine as well as developments regarding "long-term legal security guarantees for the Russian Federation". A Kremlin statement noted that serious concerns were expressed due to the quickly deteriorating situation along the contact line in Donbass. Putin noted that "provocations from Ukrainian militants were the reason for the escalation". Ahead of the conversation, the French President's office said that the call represented "the final possible and necessary efforts to avoid a major conflict in Ukraine." This was the fifth telephonic conversation between Putin with his French counterpart since the beginning of this year. Earlier this month on February 7, both the leaders met in person when Macron visited Russia. The latest call lasted 105 minutes and is termed as the last-ditch effort to avert a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine. Macron has been vouching for diplomatic ways of solving the highly sensitive border crisis. IN PICS | Satellite pictures show Russian helicopters still parked in Crimea Although, Macron has previously reiterated his determination to preserve Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty. The call came a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told Macron that he would not respond to what he called Russia's "provocations", according to the Elysee. He said he remained open to "dialogue" with Moscow. But in a speech to the Munich Security Conference, he also called on Western governments to stop what he said was "a policy of appeasement" towards Putin. After the conversation with Putin on Sunday, Macron went on to talk with Zelensky on the telephone, the French presidency said. Meanwhile, Belarus on Sunday (February 20) said that joint exercises involving Russia and Belarus forces were being extended due to tension over Ukraine, despite promises from Moscow that the drills would end this weekend. The Belarusian defence minister Victor Khrenin said in a statement, "The presidents of Belarus and Russia decided to continue inspections of the readiness of Union State forces." WATCH | Russia maintains 'no plans to invade' as tensions mount over Ukraine crisis ×

Russia-Ukraine crisis: French and Russian foreign ministers to speak on Monday

Russia will be staging massive nuclear drills amid the ongoing issue with Ukraine, as per reports. Russian President Vladimir Putin will oversee the military drills.

Amid Ukraine issue, Russia to stage massive nuclear drills; Vladimir Putin to oversee

Donbas separatists order evacuation after shelling in the region. Russian President Vladimir Putin raised alarms over shelling in the region. Donbas separatists say Ukraine is preparing an offensive in the region.

Ukraine: Vladimir Putin raises alarm over shelling in Donbas

Russia on Saturday launched its “planned” nuclear drills hours after the US said that the Russian troops manned near Ukraine’s border are “poised to strike”.

The drills come amid tensions boiling between the West and Russia over the Ukraine conflict.

Russia test-fired its latest hypersonic, cruise and nuclear-capable ballistic missiles on the ground, at sea and in the air, as part of “planned exercises” under the watchful eyes of President Vladimir Putin, who was joined by Belarus’ Alexander Lukashenko.

“All the missiles hit their targets, confirming their performance objectives,” the Kremlin said in a statement, adding that the drills included Tu-95 bombers and submarines.

“The main objective of these exercises is to perfect the performance of our strategic offensive forces, with the aim of delivering a guaranteed strike against the enemy," chief of the general staff Valery Gerasimov told Putin in televised comments.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-invading-ukraine-will-invite-bolstered-nato-on-europes-eastern-flank-harris-454615" hreflang="en">Kamala Harris warns Russia of huge financial costs if it invades Ukraine</a>

The drills included Russia's Black and North Sea navies, as well as the country's strategic forces, the Kremlin said.

Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Russian forces were beginning to “uncoil and move closer” to the border with its former Soviet neighbour.

“We hope he steps back from the brink of conflict,” he told a news conference on a visit to Lithuania, saying an invasion of Ukraine was not inevitable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-russian-rebel-leader-announces-general-mobilisation-1-ukraine-soldier-killed-in-clashes-454514">Pro-Russian rebel leader announces 'general mobilisation'; 1 Ukraine soldier killed in clashes</a>

The US has been accusing Russia of amassing over 150,000 soldiers near the borders even as Kremlin announced that is pulling back.

Joe Biden has been claiming that Russia can attack Ukraine “any time now”.

Earlier in the day, Russian-backed separatist leaders in eastern Ukraine declared a full military mobilisation, a day after ordering women and children to evacuate to Russia, citing the threat of an imminent attack by Ukrainian forces.

Both Kyiv and Washington have denied the accusation saying that increased shelling across the ceasefire line this week is part of Russia's plan to create a pretext for an invasion of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Saturday launched its “planned” nuclear drills hours after the US said that the Russian troops manned near Ukraine’s border are “poised to strike”. The drills come amid tensions boiling between the West and Russia over the Ukraine conflict.

Russia on Saturday launched its “planned” nuclear drills hours after the US said that the Russian troops manned near Ukraine’s border are “poised to strike”. The drills come amid tensions boiling between the West and Russia over the Ukraine conflict. Russia test-fired its latest hypersonic, cruise and nuclear-capable ballistic missiles on the ground, at sea and in the air, as part of “planned exercises” under the watchful eyes of President Vladimir Putin, who was joined by Belarus’ Alexander Lukashenko. “All the missiles hit their targets, confirming their performance objectives,” the Kremlin said in a statement, adding that the drills included Tu-95 bombers and submarines. “The main objective of these exercises is to perfect the performance of our strategic offensive forces, with the aim of delivering a guaranteed strike against the enemy," chief of the general staff Valery Gerasimov told Putin in televised comments. Also read | Kamala Harris warns Russia of huge financial costs if it invades Ukraine The drills included Russia's Black and North Sea navies, as well as the country's strategic forces, the Kremlin said. Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Russian forces were beginning to “uncoil and move closer” to the border with its former Soviet neighbour. “We hope he steps back from the brink of conflict,” he told a news conference on a visit to Lithuania, saying an invasion of Ukraine was not inevitable. Also read | Pro-Russian rebel leader announces 'general mobilisation'; 1 Ukraine soldier killed in clashes The US has been accusing Russia of amassing over 150,000 soldiers near the borders even as Kremlin announced that is pulling back. Joe Biden has been claiming that Russia can attack Ukraine “any time now”. Earlier in the day, Russian-backed separatist leaders in eastern Ukraine declared a full military mobilisation, a day after ordering women and children to evacuate to Russia, citing the threat of an imminent attack by Ukrainian forces. Both Kyiv and Washington have denied the accusation saying that increased shelling across the ceasefire line this week is part of Russia's plan to create a pretext for an invasion of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Ballistic, cruise missiles in exercises: Russia flexes muscles as US says Moscow ‘poised to strike’

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

Ukraine calls for UNSC to discuss Donbass

Will Russia invade Ukraine tomorrow? Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has asked his country's citizens to fly flags and sing the national anthem on Wednesday - as many reports claim Russia could launch an invasion tomorrow. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ukraine-Russia conflict: Wednesday the day of attack?

Vladimir Putin is counting on China to help Russia circumvent possible western sanctions. Will Beijing openly back a Russian invasion of Ukraine? What's in it for Xi Jinping? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: What will China do if Russia invades Ukraine?

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Scholz’s meeting comes a day after he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz meets Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow amid Ukraine tensions

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

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

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

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

US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin talked over the phone for more than 1 hour on Saturday as tensions over the Ukraine crisis reach a boiling point.

According to White House officials, Biden, during the call, warned Putin that Ukraine attack will bring “swift and severe costs”.

Biden said that the United States "will respond decisively and impose swift and severe costs on Russia” should it invade Ukraine.

According to a readout from the White House, Biden stressed that “while the United States remains prepared to engage in diplomacy, in full coordination with our Allies and partners, we are equally prepared for other scenarios.”

Putin, on the other hand, slammed the Western countries claim of an imminent Moscow invasion of Ukraine as a “provocation”.

A US official told AFP that&nbsp;more than one-hour call between Biden and Putin had “no fundamental change.”

“The call was professional and substantive and lasted a bit over an hour. There was no fundamental change in the dynamics unfolding now for several weeks," an unnamed US official said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-pulls-out-some-diplomatic-staff-from-ukraine-as-tensions-with-west-intensify-452664" hreflang="en">Russia pulls out some diplomatic staff from Ukraine as tensions intensify</a>

Meanwhile, Dutch flight carrier KLM has suspended flights to Ukraine until further notice.

The airline said it had cancelled its scheduled Saturday evening flight to Kyiv and suspended all other Ukraine flights “until further notice”, after it conducted a “comprehensive security analysis” as the Dutch government warned citizens against travel to the country.

Russia has massed well over 100,000 troops near the Ukraine border and has sent troops to exercises in neighbouring Belarus, but denies that it intends to launch an offensive against Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-tells-allies-russia-may-attack-ukraine-on-february-16-reports-452685">Biden tells allies Russia may attack Ukraine on February 16: Reports</a>

The timing of any possible Russian military action is unclear.

But the US intelligence claims that Russia is looking at Wednesday as a target date, according to media reports.

The White House publicly underscored that the US does not know with certainty whether Putin is committed to invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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

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

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

US President Joe Biden reportedly told the Western allies during a phone call that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, could launch an attack on Ukraine on February 16.

According to Politico, the leaders of the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Canada, Poland, Romania and France, as well as the NATO secretary general and the president of the European Commission took part in the talks.

It is being reported that Biden informed them that the "invasion"&nbsp;could be preceded by missile strikes and cyberattacks.

The media outlet, citing sources, said the call of the leaders indicated that cyberattacks were “imminent”, while another said intelligence reports were “specific and alarming”.

But the UK said it had a “different interpretation” of the alleged February 16 attack.

Politico reported that two European Union diplomats shared even more sceptical views, with one saying they “still refuse to buy it. It would be such a mistake by Putin. War is costly, Ukraine will fight them with everything.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-recalls-some-diplomatic-staff-from-ukraine-as-tensions-with-west-intensifies-452664" hreflang="en">Russia recalls some diplomatic staff from Ukraine as tensions intensify</a>

On Friday, US National security adviser Jake Sullivan mentioned that any attack on Ukraine could begin with “aerial bombing and missile attacks.”, saying that invasion could begin at any time, including “during the [Beijing] Olympics, despite a lot of speculation that it would only happen after the Olympics."

But Politico pointed out that Feb. 16 intelligence is “raw and not the overall assessment of the United States”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-recalls-some-diplomatic-staff-from-ukraine-as-tensions-with-west-intensifies-452664">Russia recalls some diplomatic staff from Ukraine as tensions with West intensifies</a>

Meanwhile, Reuters has reported that Biden is sending 3,000 troops to Poland to join 1,700 who already are assembling there in a demonstration of American commitment to NATO allies worried at the prospect of Russia invading Ukraine,&nbsp;

Their mission will be to train and provide deterrence but not to engage in combat in Ukraine, Reuters said citing a US defence official.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden reportedly told the Western allies during a phone call that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, could launch an attack on Ukraine on February 16.

US President Joe Biden reportedly told the Western allies during a phone call that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, could launch an attack on Ukraine on February 16. According to Politico, the leaders of the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Canada, Poland, Romania and France, as well as the NATO secretary general and the president of the European Commission took part in the talks. It is being reported that Biden informed them that the "invasion" could be preceded by missile strikes and cyberattacks. The media outlet, citing sources, said the call of the leaders indicated that cyberattacks were “imminent”, while another said intelligence reports were “specific and alarming”. But the UK said it had a “different interpretation” of the alleged February 16 attack. Politico reported that two European Union diplomats shared even more sceptical views, with one saying they “still refuse to buy it. It would be such a mistake by Putin. War is costly, Ukraine will fight them with everything.” Also read | Russia recalls some diplomatic staff from Ukraine as tensions intensify On Friday, US National security adviser Jake Sullivan mentioned that any attack on Ukraine could begin with “aerial bombing and missile attacks.”, saying that invasion could begin at any time, including “during the [Beijing] Olympics, despite a lot of speculation that it would only happen after the Olympics." But Politico pointed out that Feb. 16 intelligence is “raw and not the overall assessment of the United States”. Also read | Russia recalls some diplomatic staff from Ukraine as tensions with West intensifies Meanwhile, Reuters has reported that Biden is sending 3,000 troops to Poland to join 1,700 who already are assembling there in a demonstration of American commitment to NATO allies worried at the prospect of Russia invading Ukraine, Their mission will be to train and provide deterrence but not to engage in combat in Ukraine, Reuters said citing a US defence official. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden tells allies Russia may attack Ukraine on February 16: Reports

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

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

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

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

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Joe Biden held a high-stakes telephone call as tensions over a possibility imminent invasion of Ukraine escalated sharply.

Biden-Putin phone call on Ukraine fails to ease tension

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

US President Joe Biden warns Russia's Vladimir Putin over Ukraine invasion

The Kremlin denounced US "peak hysteria" surrounding the Ukraine conflict but said Russian President Vladimir Putin and US leader Joe Biden had agreed to continue dialogue.

Kremlin denounces US 'peak hysteria' after Putin-Biden phone call

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday said that the leaders of both Russia and Ukraine had committed to honouring the Minsk accord.

French President Emmanuel Macron says Putin & Zelensky committed to Minsk accord

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Kyiv after an epic misfire in Moscow. The Kremlin has rejected Macron's claims that Putin agreed to 'no escalation'. Can Macron salvage his diplomatic mission with a win in Kyiv? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Putin uses 'rape joke' to insult Ukraine

French President Emmanuel Macron met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Macron then met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv. Macron is trying to be the peacemaker. What's in it for him? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Ukraine, Russia crisis: Why is Macron playing the peacemaker?

Are Emmanuel Macron's efforts to dial down tensions in Ukraine working? Do stakeholders expect diplomacy to deliver? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma decodes the possibilities with correspondents from Moscow, Washington D.C. & London.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Russia Vs Ukraine: Can diplomacy deliver?

Vladimir Putin has hinted at a nuclear response if NATO attacks Russia. But can the Russian economy sustain a war? Has Putin calibrated his economy to fund conflicts? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Putin hints at nuclear response if NATO attacks

Does Vladimir Putin want a war or a face saver? What kind of concessions is he looking for? Romoeo Kokriatski, Managing Editor at The New Voice of Ukraine & foreign policy expert Svitlana Zalischuk decode his intentions in an exclusive conversation with Palki Sharma.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Ukraine Conflict: What does Putin really want?

Expressing concern over increasing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Pope Francis hoped that the talks between the two countries, adding that a war in the eastern European country “would be madness”.

Speaking at his Wednesday general audience, Francis thanked those who took part in his January 26 international day of prayer for peace in Ukraine.

“Let us continue to beg the God of peace so that the tensions and threats of war can be overcome through a serious dialogue and that the Normandy Format talks can contribute to this aim,” he said, referring to negotiations involving Russia and Ukraine, facilitated by Germany and France.

“And let's not forget. War is madness,” he said.

Russia has reportedly gathered troops near the Ukraine borders, stoking fears of an invasion. But Kremlin has reputedly denied the accusations made by the West and maintained that it doesn’t intend to repeat the 2014 skirmish that led to the annexation of Crimea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-macron-pushes-for-peace-as-russian-warships-head-to-the-black-sea-for-drills-451586" hreflang="en">Ukraine row: Macron pushes for peace as Russian warships get ready for drills</a>

Most Ukrainians follow Orthodox Christianity, but the country is also home to its own branch of the Catholic Church, which practices an eastern rite similar to Orthodox worship while proclaiming loyalty to the Pope in Rome.

Earlier in the day, French President Emmanuel Macron, who is in Moscow to meet his counterpart Vladimir Putin, said that he was assured that Kremlin would not escalate the Ukrainian crisis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-would-be-wise-for-americans-to-leave-ukraine-says-biden-451453">It 'would be wise' for Americans to leave Ukraine, says Biden</a>

Macron also said it would take time to find a diplomatic solution to the rising tensions, which represent the biggest security crisis between Russia and the West since the Cold War.

His remarks on a visit to Kyiv came as the Kremlin denied reports that he and Putin struck a deal on de-escalating the crisis.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that “in the current situation, Moscow and Paris can’t be reaching any deals.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Expressing concern over increasing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Pope Francis hoped that the talks between the two countries, adding that a war in the eastern European country “would be madness”.

Expressing concern over increasing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Pope Francis hoped that the talks between the two countries, adding that a war in the eastern European country “would be madness”. Speaking at his Wednesday general audience, Francis thanked those who took part in his January 26 international day of prayer for peace in Ukraine. “Let us continue to beg the God of peace so that the tensions and threats of war can be overcome through a serious dialogue and that the Normandy Format talks can contribute to this aim,” he said, referring to negotiations involving Russia and Ukraine, facilitated by Germany and France. “And let's not forget. War is madness,” he said. Russia has reportedly gathered troops near the Ukraine borders, stoking fears of an invasion. But Kremlin has reputedly denied the accusations made by the West and maintained that it doesn’t intend to repeat the 2014 skirmish that led to the annexation of Crimea. Also read | Ukraine row: Macron pushes for peace as Russian warships get ready for drills Most Ukrainians follow Orthodox Christianity, but the country is also home to its own branch of the Catholic Church, which practices an eastern rite similar to Orthodox worship while proclaiming loyalty to the Pope in Rome. Earlier in the day, French President Emmanuel Macron, who is in Moscow to meet his counterpart Vladimir Putin, said that he was assured that Kremlin would not escalate the Ukrainian crisis. Also read | It 'would be wise' for Americans to leave Ukraine, says Biden Macron also said it would take time to find a diplomatic solution to the rising tensions, which represent the biggest security crisis between Russia and the West since the Cold War. His remarks on a visit to Kyiv came as the Kremlin denied reports that he and Putin struck a deal on de-escalating the crisis. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that “in the current situation, Moscow and Paris can’t be reaching any deals.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘War is madness’: Pope Francis backs for talks between Ukraine and Russia

A new report has claimed that Russia can earn $13 billion annually by regulating cryptocurrency.

Published by Moscow-based news outlet 'The Bell,' the report suggests that taxes should imposed on exchanges and intermediaries, as well as income from investments.

A piece of similar advice was given by Finance Ministry official Ivan Chebeskov who said Russia should regulate the crypto market, not ban it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-much-tax-is-imposed-on-cryptocurrency-in-different-countries-worldwide-449585">Also see |&nbsp;How much tax is imposed on cryptocurrency in different countries worldwide?</a>

President Vladimir Putin has asked Russian politicians and the central bank to reach consensus, following a clash over how much control is needed on cryptocurrencies as they gain traction in Russia.

Russia has argued for years against cryptocurrencies, saying they could be used in money laundering or to finance terrorism. It eventually gave them legal status in 2020 but banned their use as a means of payment.

The central bank last week said financial stability, citizens' wellbeing and its monetary policy sovereignty were all under threat.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-proposes-ban-on-crypto-use-mining-446390/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The bank proposed preventing financial institutions from carrying out any operations with cryptocurrencies and said mechanisms should be developed to block transactions aimed at buying or selling cryptocurrencies for fiat currencies.

The central bank said it would work with regulators in countries where crypto exchanges are registered to collect information about the operations of Russian clients. It pointed to steps taken in other countries, such as China, to curb cryptocurrency activity.

In September last year, China intensified its crackdown on cryptocurrencies with a blanket ban on all crypto transactions and mining, hitting bitcoin and other major coins and pressuring crypto and blockchain-related stocks.

Kremlin had estimated the Russian cryptocurrency market at more than 16.5 trillion rubles ($214 billion), which is around 12 per cent of the total value of global crypto market capitalisation.

Russia is the world's third-largest player in bitcoin mining, behind the United States and Kazakhstan, though the latter may see a miner exodus over fears of tightening regulation following unrest earlier this month.

Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are "mined" by powerful computers that compete against others hooked up to a global network to solve complex mathematical puzzles, a process that requires heavy use of electricity.

This year, Russia plans to test a digital rouble to facilitate payments for individuals and businesses and try to make its currency more global in the face of Western sanctions.

(With inputs from agencies)

A new report has claimed that Russia can earn $13 billion annually by regulating cryptocurrency. Published by Moscow-based news outlet 'The Bell,' the report suggests that taxes should imposed on exchanges and intermediaries, as well as income from investments.

A new report has claimed that Russia can earn $13 billion annually by regulating cryptocurrency. Published by Moscow-based news outlet 'The Bell,' the report suggests that taxes should imposed on exchanges and intermediaries, as well as income from investments. A piece of similar advice was given by Finance Ministry official Ivan Chebeskov who said Russia should regulate the crypto market, not ban it. Also see | How much tax is imposed on cryptocurrency in different countries worldwide? President Vladimir Putin has asked Russian politicians and the central bank to reach consensus, following a clash over how much control is needed on cryptocurrencies as they gain traction in Russia. Russia has argued for years against cryptocurrencies, saying they could be used in money laundering or to finance terrorism. It eventually gave them legal status in 2020 but banned their use as a means of payment. The central bank last week said financial stability, citizens' wellbeing and its monetary policy sovereignty were all under threat. The bank proposed preventing financial institutions from carrying out any operations with cryptocurrencies and said mechanisms should be developed to block transactions aimed at buying or selling cryptocurrencies for fiat currencies. The central bank said it would work with regulators in countries where crypto exchanges are registered to collect information about the operations of Russian clients. It pointed to steps taken in other countries, such as China, to curb cryptocurrency activity. In September last year, China intensified its crackdown on cryptocurrencies with a blanket ban on all crypto transactions and mining, hitting bitcoin and other major coins and pressuring crypto and blockchain-related stocks. Kremlin had estimated the Russian cryptocurrency market at more than 16.5 trillion rubles ($214 billion), which is around 12 per cent of the total value of global crypto market capitalisation. Russia is the world's third-largest player in bitcoin mining, behind the United States and Kazakhstan, though the latter may see a miner exodus over fears of tightening regulation following unrest earlier this month. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are "mined" by powerful computers that compete against others hooked up to a global network to solve complex mathematical puzzles, a process that requires heavy use of electricity. This year, Russia plans to test a digital rouble to facilitate payments for individuals and businesses and try to make its currency more global in the face of Western sanctions. (With inputs from agencies)

How Russia can earn $13 billion annually by regulating cryptocurrency?

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday said that steps could be taken to de-escalate the Ukraine crisis and suggested both sides to stay calm. Macron shuttled from Moscow to Kyiv in an attempt to mediate a settlement and avoid war.

Ukraine Crisis: Macron calls for calm, meets both countries' presidents

The Ukraine crisis is here to stay.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia is increasingly staking his legacy on reversing Ukraine’s pro-Western shift. Even if he does not order an invasion this winter, he is making clear that he will keep the pressure on, backed by the threat of force, for as long as it takes to get his way.

But Ukraine’s leaders have so far refused to compromise on Putin’s terms, and the West sees the Kremlin’s demand for a Russian sphere of influence in Eastern Europe as a nonstarter. That leaves the best-case scenario as a long and dangerous diplomatic slog toward a difficult settlement — a process that could consume Western resources and attention for many months.

President Emmanuel Macron of France, shuttling from Moscow to Kyiv, Ukraine, to Berlin on Monday and Tuesday, described the coming days as crucial in the West’s bid to avert war. Putin countered with a pledge to keep the “dialogue” going. It was a message that implied he would be deliberate in using his levers of influence and coercion to deal with the long-standing Russian grievances that the Kremlin appears newly determined to address.

“I expect we’ll have this crisis with us, in various forms, for all of 2022, at least,” said Andrei Sushentsov, dean of the school of international relations at MGIMO, the elite Moscow university run by the Russian Foreign Ministry.

He described the current standoff as only the first step in a drawn-out Russian effort to force the West to agree to a new security architecture for Eastern Europe. It was a characterization of the start of a more high-stakes phase in Russia’s yearslong conflict with the West that is gaining currency in Moscow’s foreign policy circles.

Russia’s aim, according to Sushentsov: keep the threat of war ever-present, and thus compel negotiations that Western officials have avoided until now.

For too long, he said in an interview, people in Western Europe have been lulled into thinking that a new war on the continent was impossible. For Putin, that point of view needs to be changed, Sushentsov said, to compel the West to accept Russia’s demands.

“What’s important is this suspense, this feeling of a prewar situation,” Sushentsov said. “People are spoiled by an overly long peace. They think of security as a given, as something that is attained for free, rather than something that must be negotiated. This is a mistake.”

For the West, that approach could mean being drawn in to a new sort of “forever war” — a conflict consuming ever more time and treasure, with no clear exit strategy. President Joe Biden on Monday characterized a Russian invasion of Ukraine as “tanks or troops crossing the border.” But U.S. officials say that there remain numerous lower-grade options that Putin is considering that could touch off a less deadly but still costly conflict.

Even if Macron, working with Biden and other Western leaders, were to help secure a temporary relaxation of tensions, Putin’s demands are so expansive — and his disdain of Ukraine’s pro-Western leaders so great — that analysts struggle to imagine a grand bargain being struck.

Ruslan Pukhov, a Russian military analyst, said that even if the West and Ukraine were to make sufficient concessions in the coming weeks to avert an armed conflict, they would be unlikely to satisfy Russia in the longer term, adding that a renewed threat of war could come next year.

“The West just doesn’t understand how much this is a question of life or death for us,” said Pukhov, who runs the Center for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies, a privately owned think tank in Moscow. “Ukraine in NATO, from my point of view or Russia’s, would be the equivalent of nuclear war.”

Putin made the threat of war over Ukraine between nuclear superpowers explicit twice in recent days: in news conferences after his meetings with Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary last week and with Macron on Monday. Both times, Putin described a scenario in which Ukraine would join NATO and then try to recapture Crimea, the Ukrainian peninsula that Russia annexed in 2014, with the Western alliance’s backing.

Dmitri Kiselyov, one of Russian state television’s leading anchors, on Sunday detailed what would happen next: a nuclear war in which Russia, faced with its own destruction, would take the West with it.

“Let’s remember that Russia doesn’t need a world without Russia,” Kiselyov intoned at the beginning of his weekly prime-time show, paraphrasing a 2018 line by Putin. “And then not just America, but also Europe, will turn into radioactive ash.”

Western officials describe NATO membership for Ukraine as unrealistic anytime in the near future, but the Kremlin insists that even the possibility poses an existential threat. On the ground, analysts see preparations gaining pace for a possible military solution to preventing Ukraine from ever joining NATO.

Researchers monitoring satellite imagery and footage of troop movements posted to social media say that Russia is deploying personnel and equipment within miles of the border with Ukraine. The forces have been filmed setting up tents in the mud and snow, adding to fears that Putin could order an attack as early as this month.

“It’s safe to say that this is not a force posture that Russia is going to maintain for an extended period of time,” said Michael Kofman, director of Russia studies at CNA, a research institute based in Arlington, Virginia. “They are entering a go/no-go posture, and they’re going to make that decision in the coming weeks.”

But even if an attack were to happen, touching off what would most likely be enormous human suffering in Ukraine, the diplomatic scramble would continue — with Russia exercising even more leverage, Kofman argued.

“Diplomacy continues throughout war,” he said. “Ultimately, there would need to be some sort of agreement.”

Despite the worrying troop movements, many analysts inside Russia continue to doubt that Putin will actually order a full invasion. The risks would far exceed any of Putin’s prior military pushes, like the five-day war against Georgia in 2008 or the still-simmering proxy war in eastern Ukraine that he started in 2014. Russian missiles could miss their targets, causing civilian casualties; Ukraine could respond by attacking Russian targets across the border.

“I think most military officials understand that any operation would be rife with great difficulties,” said Pukhov, the Russian military analyst. “One has to understand that even in the event of limited military action, you won’t be able to avoid a major escalation, and it won’t conclude in five days.”

The Kremlin said Tuesday that Russia would withdraw the thousands of troops it had sent to Belarus, Ukraine’s northern neighbor, after large-scale joint exercises concluded there Feb. 20. Whether the Russian troops indeed leave will be one closely watched signal of Putin’s military intentions. Even if they do, Russia’s newfound appetite for attention-grabbing military pressure against Ukraine and the West is likely to remain.

“Russia has departed from the tactic of simply asking to be listened to,” said Sushentsov, the university dean. “Russian leaders have seen that this does not work and that it is necessary to make clear the risks of the Russian position being ignored.”

The Ukraine crisis is here to stay. President Vladimir Putin of Russia is increasingly staking his legacy on reversing Ukraine’s pro-Western shift. Even if he does not order an invasion this winter, he is making clear that he will keep the pressure on, backed by the threat of force, for as long as it takes to get his way.

The Ukraine crisis is here to stay. President Vladimir Putin of Russia is increasingly staking his legacy on reversing Ukraine’s pro-Western shift. Even if he does not order an invasion this winter, he is making clear that he will keep the pressure on, backed by the threat of force, for as long as it takes to get his way. But Ukraine’s leaders have so far refused to compromise on Putin’s terms, and the West sees the Kremlin’s demand for a Russian sphere of influence in Eastern Europe as a nonstarter. That leaves the best-case scenario as a long and dangerous diplomatic slog toward a difficult settlement — a process that could consume Western resources and attention for many months. President Emmanuel Macron of France, shuttling from Moscow to Kyiv, Ukraine, to Berlin on Monday and Tuesday, described the coming days as crucial in the West’s bid to avert war. Putin countered with a pledge to keep the “dialogue” going. It was a message that implied he would be deliberate in using his levers of influence and coercion to deal with the long-standing Russian grievances that the Kremlin appears newly determined to address. “I expect we’ll have this crisis with us, in various forms, for all of 2022, at least,” said Andrei Sushentsov, dean of the school of international relations at MGIMO, the elite Moscow university run by the Russian Foreign Ministry. He described the current standoff as only the first step in a drawn-out Russian effort to force the West to agree to a new security architecture for Eastern Europe. It was a characterization of the start of a more high-stakes phase in Russia’s yearslong conflict with the West that is gaining currency in Moscow’s foreign policy circles. Russia’s aim, according to Sushentsov: keep the threat of war ever-present, and thus compel negotiations that Western officials have avoided until now. For too long, he said in an interview, people in Western Europe have been lulled into thinking that a new war on the continent was impossible. For Putin, that point of view needs to be changed, Sushentsov said, to compel the West to accept Russia’s demands. “What’s important is this suspense, this feeling of a prewar situation,” Sushentsov said. “People are spoiled by an overly long peace. They think of security as a given, as something that is attained for free, rather than something that must be negotiated. This is a mistake.” For the West, that approach could mean being drawn in to a new sort of “forever war” — a conflict consuming ever more time and treasure, with no clear exit strategy. President Joe Biden on Monday characterized a Russian invasion of Ukraine as “tanks or troops crossing the border.” But U.S. officials say that there remain numerous lower-grade options that Putin is considering that could touch off a less deadly but still costly conflict. Even if Macron, working with Biden and other Western leaders, were to help secure a temporary relaxation of tensions, Putin’s demands are so expansive — and his disdain of Ukraine’s pro-Western leaders so great — that analysts struggle to imagine a grand bargain being struck. Ruslan Pukhov, a Russian military analyst, said that even if the West and Ukraine were to make sufficient concessions in the coming weeks to avert an armed conflict, they would be unlikely to satisfy Russia in the longer term, adding that a renewed threat of war could come next year. “The West just doesn’t understand how much this is a question of life or death for us,” said Pukhov, who runs the Center for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies, a privately owned think tank in Moscow. “Ukraine in NATO, from my point of view or Russia’s, would be the equivalent of nuclear war.” Putin made the threat of war over Ukraine between nuclear superpowers explicit twice in recent days: in news conferences after his meetings with Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary last week and with Macron on Monday. Both times, Putin described a scenario in which Ukraine would join NATO and then try to recapture Crimea, the Ukrainian peninsula that Russia annexed in 2014, with the Western alliance’s backing. Dmitri Kiselyov, one of Russian state television’s leading anchors, on Sunday detailed what would happen next: a nuclear war in which Russia, faced with its own destruction, would take the West with it. “Let’s remember that Russia doesn’t need a world without Russia,” Kiselyov intoned at the beginning of his weekly prime-time show, paraphrasing a 2018 line by Putin. “And then not just America, but also Europe, will turn into radioactive ash.” Western officials describe NATO membership for Ukraine as unrealistic anytime in the near future, but the Kremlin insists that even the possibility poses an existential threat. On the ground, analysts see preparations gaining pace for a possible military solution to preventing Ukraine from ever joining NATO. Researchers monitoring satellite imagery and footage of troop movements posted to social media say that Russia is deploying personnel and equipment within miles of the border with Ukraine. The forces have been filmed setting up tents in the mud and snow, adding to fears that Putin could order an attack as early as this month. “It’s safe to say that this is not a force posture that Russia is going to maintain for an extended period of time,” said Michael Kofman, director of Russia studies at CNA, a research institute based in Arlington, Virginia. “They are entering a go/no-go posture, and they’re going to make that decision in the coming weeks.” But even if an attack were to happen, touching off what would most likely be enormous human suffering in Ukraine, the diplomatic scramble would continue — with Russia exercising even more leverage, Kofman argued. “Diplomacy continues throughout war,” he said. “Ultimately, there would need to be some sort of agreement.” Despite the worrying troop movements, many analysts inside Russia continue to doubt that Putin will actually order a full invasion. The risks would far exceed any of Putin’s prior military pushes, like the five-day war against Georgia in 2008 or the still-simmering proxy war in eastern Ukraine that he started in 2014. Russian missiles could miss their targets, causing civilian casualties; Ukraine could respond by attacking Russian targets across the border. “I think most military officials understand that any operation would be rife with great difficulties,” said Pukhov, the Russian military analyst. “One has to understand that even in the event of limited military action, you won’t be able to avoid a major escalation, and it won’t conclude in five days.” The Kremlin said Tuesday that Russia would withdraw the thousands of troops it had sent to Belarus, Ukraine’s northern neighbor, after large-scale joint exercises concluded there Feb. 20. Whether the Russian troops indeed leave will be one closely watched signal of Putin’s military intentions. Even if they do, Russia’s newfound appetite for attention-grabbing military pressure against Ukraine and the West is likely to remain. “Russia has departed from the tactic of simply asking to be listened to,” said Sushentsov, the university dean. “Russian leaders have seen that this does not work and that it is necessary to make clear the risks of the Russian position being ignored.”

Putin is operating on his own timetable, and it may be a long one

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