Kremlin denies plans to invade Ukraine, alleges NATO threats
ABC News
The Kremlin has rebuffed allegations that a buildup of Russian troops near Ukraine reflects Moscow’s aggressive intentions
MOSCOW -- The Kremlin on Friday rebuffed allegations that a buildup of its troops near Ukraine reflects Moscow's aggressive intentions, saying that Russia needs to ensure its security in response to alleged NATO threats.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed Western media reports that Moscow has intentions to invade Ukraine as a “hollow and unfounded attempt to incite tensions.”
“Russia doesn't threaten anyone,” Peskov said during a conference call with reporters. “The movement of troops on our territory shouldn't be a cause for anyone's concern.”
Ukraine complained last week that Russia has kept tens of thousands of troops not far from the two countries' borders after conducting war games in an attempt to exert further pressure on its ex-Soviet neighbor. Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula in 2014 and has supported a separatist insurgency that broke out that year in eastern Ukraine.
