Ukraine-Russia crisis: What to know as tension grinds on
The Hindu
Amid its tensest standoff with the West since the Cold War, Russia plans to demonstrate its nuclear might this weekend
The multiple practice launches of intercontinental ballistic missiles and cruise missiles set for Saturday follow a warning from U.S. President Joe Biden that Russia could invade Ukraine within days.
NATO says Russian President Vladimir Putin has failed to keep his promises of withdrawing some of an estimated 150,000 troops assembled around Ukraine’s borders, dashing hopes for an imminent de-escalation of the crisis. The Kremlin insists it has no plans to invade.
The United States and other alliance members to keep up the diplomatic pressure to deter a possible invasion of Ukraine. Biden is due to discuss Russia and Ukraine with trans-Atlantic leaders in a Friday phone call.
Vice President Kamala Harris is also taking a front seat. Harris is attending the annual Munich Security Conference this weekend in Germany, where she aims to cement the unity of Washington’s European allies. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will also be there.
Here’s a look at what is happening where and why:
The Kremlin says Putin will watch drills involving Russia’s strategic nuclear forces from the situation room at the Russian Defense Ministry.
The Defense Ministry said Putin will personally oversee Saturday's display of his country's nuclear might. Notably, the planned exercise involves the Crimea-based Black Sea Fleet. Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine in 2014.
Poland's Deputy PM emphasizes that borders should be determined by negotiation, not violence, while discussing EU-India relations.
Italian PM Meloni criticizes Trump's tariff threats over Greenland, calling them a "mistake" and urging NATO for clearer communication.
Uganda extends social media ban post-election while lifting internet restrictions, citing concerns over misinformation and public order.
Kurdish forces withdraw from Syria's largest oil field as government troops assert control amidst ongoing tensions and stalled integration efforts.
Pentagon prepares 1,500 troops for potential deployment to Minnesota amid escalating tensions over protests against immigration enforcement.
Iran plans to gradually restore internet access after a week-long shutdown amid ongoing protests and communications issues.
French Minister warns Trump faces significant risks from proposed tariffs on Europe, impacting U.S. farmers and industries.
Official reports confirm at least 5,000 deaths from Iran protests, with heavy clashes concentrated in Kurdish regions.
Spanish PM Sanchez warns that a U.S. invasion of Greenland would empower Putin and jeopardize NATO's stability.
Syrian state media reports Kurdish forces destroyed two key bridges in Raqqa amid advancing government troops.
Taiwanese journalist Lin Chen-you is accused of bribing military officers for sensitive information to relay to China.
Syrian army expands control over northern regions amid Kurdish clashes, following a decree recognizing Kurdish as a national language.
Indonesian authorities locate wreckage of missing surveillance plane with 11 on board; search for survivors continues amidst challenging conditions.