Russia on Tuesday announced that it is pulling back some of its troops amidst US threats that the nation could invade Ukraine anytime. It had earlier moved 130000 soldiers to the Ukrainian border. However, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said there isn’t any visible sign of de-escalation on the ground expressing cautious optimism.
Though the number of units Russia has withdrawn is unclear, it has brought down oil prices by 3% from a seven-year high it went up to, owing to fear of war. US markets have also opened up sharply higher after Russia’s announcement. Meanwhile, Ukraine has claimed that its defense ministry and two banks have come under cyberattack, blaming Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin maintains that his country is ready to work further with the US and NATO through negotiations. He also said Russia has no plans to invade Ukraine; instead wants security guarantees from the west.
Russia wants Kyiv to be kept out of NATO and the military bloc to stop expanding its bases in Eastern Europe. It is a demand that both the US and NATO have deemed non-starters. Russia also wants NATO to stop weapons deployment in former Soviet countries and withdraw military equipment and forces stationed there.
French President, Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz made separate visits to Russia and Ukraine to secure peace.
Nevertheless, the Indian Embassy in Kyiv has advised its nationals in Ukraine, particularly students, to update their location status and temporarily leave the country. It has also asked them to avoid non-essential travel to and within Ukraine.
Some 18,000 Indian students are studying in Ukraine. Lack of flight availability, steep air fares owing to the crisis, and fear of disruption in studies have put them in a tight spot. However, the Ukrainian ambassador to India, Igor Polikha, said Indian students need not panic and leave the country as diplomatic talks are still underway.