Russia-Ukraine crisis: Top developments unfolding along the volatile borders
Efforts to foil an invasion of Ukraine took a massive hit when Russia recognised independence of two separatist regions in Ukraine. The United States put out financial sanctions against the rebel territories and will force fresh sanctions on Russia.
Latest developments on the Russia-Ukraine conflict:
1) Vladimir Putin signed mutual aid and friendship deals with rebel heads in the Kremlin today. "I believe it is necessary to take a long-overdue decision, to immediately recognise the independence and sovereignty of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Lugansk People's Republic," he said.
2) The West had often cautioned Russia against recognising Ukraine's rebels. But Russia's latest decision effectively bury a fragile peace agreement regulating the conflict.
3) The UNSC is convening an emergency meeting today at the request of Ukraine, the US, 5 European nations and Mexico.
4) During the meet, India appealed for de-escalation of the conflict. "We can't afford a military escalation. We call for restraint on all sides. We're convinced that this issue can only be resolved through diplomatic dialogue," India's representative said the UNSC meeting on Ukraine crisis.
5) Russian envoy to the UN Vasily Nebenzya on Monday said Moscow remains "open to diplomacy" but emphasized the need to defend separatist regions from what he termed Ukrainian aggession. "We remain open to diplomacy for a diplomatic solution. However, allowing a new bloodbath in the Donbass is something we do not intend to do," he said.
6) The US has put out financial sanctions against rebel territories recently recognised by Russia in eastern Ukraine. "I have signed an Executive Order to deny Russia the chance to profit from its blatant violations of international law. We are continuing to closely consult with Allies and partners, including Ukraine, on next steps," Joe Biden said while signing the order. The US also said it will impose two sanctions on Russia tomorrow.
7) The Russian forces are positioned just a few km away from the Ukrainian border, along with fighter jets, tanks, helicopters and heavy weaponry. All this points to Russia's intention, the west has claimed.
8) Russia claims the build-up of forces has always been for military exercises and that it poses no threat to Ukraine.
9) Tensions escalated after a wave of shellfire on Ukraine's eastern frontline with the separatists and a series of reported incidents on the border with Russia.
10) Ukrainian President accused Russia of ruining peace attempts and rejected making any territorial concessions in an address today.
