(HorizonPost.com) – Tensions are rising between Russia and Ukraine, as many countries rush to aid the latter for fear of a Kremlin invasion. As NATO members make moves to protect Ukraine, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warns if the countries continue their “aggressive course,” Moscow vows to retaliate. Russia wants assurances from NATO guaranteeing it will never admit Ukraine or other ex-Soviet areas as members. The West reportedly has no intention of making such a proclamation. Lavrov did not elaborate on Russia’s exact plans for retaliation.
Russia threatens retaliation if Ukraine demands not met https://t.co/BSZWOsZKZO pic.twitter.com/UYTgLkfZE6
— Austin Kellerman (@AustinKellerman) January 26, 2022
Russian President Vladimir Putin denies plans to attack Ukraine, but NATO members, including the United States, remain skeptical. The United States put 8,500 troops on alert for a possible deployment to the region, and NATO recently announced it would strengthen its presence in the Baltic Sea area.
While Russia amassed an approximate 100,000 troops close to Ukraine’s border, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said the number is “insufficient for a large-scale offensive.” Instead, the country argues that the Kremlin is trying to destabilize the country to make it more vulnerable.
Advisors from Germany, France, Ukraine, and Russia will reportedly meet soon in Paris to talk about a peace agreement. Meanwhile, the US has threatened to sanction Putin’s country if his troops enter Ukraine.
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