Kremlin Says Probability of New Conflict in East Ukraine Still High

A Ukrainian work subordinate walks on warring positions connected the interaction enactment with Russian-backed separatist rebels adjacent the municipality of Avdiivka successful Donetsk Region, Ukraine, connected Feb. 13, 2021. (Oleksandr Klymenko/Reuters)

MOSCOW—The Kremlin said connected Thursday that the probability of a caller conflict successful eastbound Ukraine remained precocious and that Moscow was acrophobic by “aggressive” rhetoric from Kyiv and an summation successful what it called provocative actions.

The comments travel amid Ukrainian and occidental concerns implicit a buildup of Russian troops adjacent Ukraine. Moscow denies readying an penetration and accuses Ukraine of gathering up its ain forces successful the eastbound of the country.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters connected a league telephone that Moscow was disquieted astir the anticipation of a Ukrainian subject determination successful eastbound Ukraine, thing that Kyiv has denied planning.

Peskov besides said that Russia viewed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s pledge to instrumentality annexed Crimea arsenic a nonstop threat.

“Such a formulation means that Kyiv whitethorn usage immoderate option, including force, to effort and encroach connected a Russian region,” helium said.

Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine successful 2014, drafting occidental condemnation and sanctions.

By Darya Korsunskaya