US says Russia has ordered final preparations for Ukraine invasion
Officials in the United States have claimed that Russia has ordered the final preparations to launch an imminent attack on its neighbor, Ukraine, amid tensions along the border. Moscow, however, has denied such claims. This came after Russia, on Sunday, revoked its earlier pledges to pull back tens of thousands of its troops from the Ukrainian border.
Why does this story matter?
The warning from the US comes after weeks of tensions along the Russia-Ukraine border. The world's largest country has amassed over 1,00,000 soldiers and advanced weapons near the border but repeatedly denies any plans of invading Ukraine. The conflict arose as Russia has been opposing Ukraine's efforts to join NATO, an international military alliance led by the United States.
'Preparations for a full-scale assault'
In a statement, the White House said Russia seemed to be "continuing preparations for a full-scale assault on Ukraine very soon." It added that the US was ready to impose "swift and severe consequences" should that happen. As per earlier projections from US officials, Russia could begin an attack on Ukraine as soon as this week.
Biden and Putin may meet soon
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has agreed "in principle" to hold a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the conflict with Ukraine. However, the White House said talks will only take place if Russia decides against invading. The proposal was announced by the French presidency after two phone calls between President Emmanuel Macron and Putin, which lasted for nearly three hours.
'Biggest war in Europe since 1945'
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that Russia is planning the "biggest war in Europe since 1945." "People need to understand the sheer cost in human life that could entail," he said from Munich, where an annual security conference is underway.
India urges citizens to leave Ukraine
On Sunday, India asked its citizens, including students, to leave Ukraine if their stay was "not essential." Indians should look for any available commercial or charter flights to fly out of the country, according to an advisory from the Indian embassy in Kyiv. The decision has been taken in view of "continued high levels of tensions and uncertainties," it added.
