What were Russia’s Demands?
In mid-December 2021, Russia’s foreign ministry issued a set of demands calling for
- the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to cease any military activity in Eastern Europe and Central Asia
- to commit against further NATO expansion toward Russia
- to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO in the future
The United States and other NATO allies rejected these demands and warned Russia they would impose severe economic sanctions if Russia invaded Ukraine. The United States sent additional military assistance to Ukraine, including ammunition, small arms, and other defensive weaponry.
Russia’s Invasion
Kyiv axis: Russia’s advance aims to encircle the capital from the northwest, west and east. The Russian military is slowly closing in on the city and the shelling was intensified.
Kharkiv axis: Although under siege, Kharkiv has not yet fallen to Russian forces because of successful local Ukrainian counterattacks.
Donbas axis: Russian forces and pro-Russian separatists have been advancing for complete control of Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts, but have not yet succeeded.
Crimea axis: Russian forces appear to be encircling Mykolayiv from the east. If secured, Russia’s next strategic move may be towards the historic city of Odessa.
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