MOSCOW: British diplomats have called on Russia to ease tensions in the region following a major military deployment on the border with the former Soviet Union. British Foreign Secretary Lis Truss has repeatedly warned that Russia could face “serious consequences” if it invades Ukraine. Trudeau called on Russia to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence and to be prepared to resolve regional conflicts. At the same time, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov responded with a warning that the class of Western countries was not needed. Russia has set up a large contingent of more than a million troops on the border. Russia’s main demands are that NATO not grant membership and arms to former Soviet powers, including Ukraine, and that it withdraw troops from Eastern Europe. This was rejected by the US and NATO.
Meanwhile, Russia’s military exercises with Belarus are continuing. Kiev, the capital of Ukraine, is about 75 miles from the Belarusian border. Therefore, countries, including the US, view Ukraine’s military exercises as part of its preparations for that arrangement. French President Emmanuel Macron has been in Russia and Ukraine for talks to ease the war-like situation. German Chancellor Olf Scholes will also visit Ukraine on February 14-15.
Ukraine is also increasing its military presence, including weapons, in anticipation of a war-like situation. Stringer missiles will arrive in Ukraine from Lithuania in a matter of days.