Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree officially recognizing two self-proclaimed separatist republics in eastern Ukraine, a move that likely torpedoes European-mediated peace talks and further escalates tensions with the West.

It drew immediate condemnation from the U.S. as well as the European Union, including states in the bloc’s far east. The U.S. is poised to move its Ukraine embassy temporarily out of the country to Poland, according to people familiar.

Putin made the announcement in a televised address against a backdrop of heightened concern over Russia’s troop buildup near Ukraine. He also ordered the Defense Ministry to send what he called “peacekeeping forces” to the separatist regions. Moscow continues to deny it plans to invade.

PrinceOfLagos:
Interesting days ahead

HUzominna:
Wwiii is here

HUzominna:
Watch Putin Live summit stream now

Watch Live: https://putin-live-stream.tumblr.com

longetivity:
Buhari is watching the situation with close eye

Gumidino:

We might call on our Leader Buhari to intervene before a further escalation of the Russia & Ukraine tensions

Gumidino:

We might call on our Leader Buhari to intervene before a further escalation of the Russia & Ukraine tensions

longetivity:
yeah, we will send our Gallant troops to deal with Russia in a language they understand for recognising/ declaring a separatist region as independent