Stoltenberg considers it “absolutely possible” that a Russian invasion is imminent. NATO intelligence would indicate that a significant number of Russian intelligence officers are active in Ukraine. They could provoke a provocation, giving Russia a the spy is clear has to invade the neighboring country.
In addition to the NATO invitation, Russia also received an invitation for consultations between Germany, France, Ukraine and Russia, the so-called Normandy talks, named after an informal meeting between the four countries during a D-Day commemoration. Visiting Moscow, German Foreign Minister Baerbock said diplomacy is the only way out of the current conflict.
Not a single option off the table
Baerbock’s visit was preceded by a trip to Kiev, where she spoke with her Ukrainian counterpart last night. There she emphasized that Germany will not supply weapons to the Ukrainian army. Germany will, however, respond with strong sanctions in the event of a Russian invasion, such as blocking the commissioning of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline.
The German business newspaper Handelsblatt reported yesterday that shutting down the international payment system Swift, which would affect Russia economically, is no longer seen as a serious option. The White House has denied that, as far as the Americans are concerned, “no option” is off the table.
The United Kingdom will supply the Ukrainian army with weapons. It concerns a number of anti-tank weapons, which the British say will not pose a threat to Russia. According to CNN, the US government is considering sending additional ammunition, missiles and anti-aircraft defense systems to Ukraine.
Soldiers to Belarus
Meanwhile, Russia has begun moving an unknown number of troops to Belarus for a joint military exercise due to take place in mid-February. Part of this is the “repelling of a foreign attack”, according to the Russian deputy defense minister Fomin.
Images of Russian military vehicles in Belarus are circulating on social media:
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