Some Russian troops being pulled out from Ukraine border: Report

Russia’s defence ministry informed Tuesday that some troops positioned on the border with Ukraine are heading back concluding their drills, Russian news agency Interfax reported.

The move arrives as the first major step towards de-escalation after heightening tensions between Russia and the West over the threat of a Russian invasion of Ukraine. 

“Units of the Southern and Western Military Districts, which have accomplished their missions, are boarding trains and trucks and will head for their garrisons later today. Some units will join military convoys and will perform self-propelled marches,” Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said. 

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Western countries have continued to voice concerns over the ‘imminent’ threat of invasion as Russia stationed more than 100,000 troops near Ukraine’s border. 

France, for instance, expressed alarm that ‘all the elements’ were in place for Russia to invade Ukraine. 

“If the question is are there elements in place so that there is a major offensive by Russian forces in Ukraine, then yes it’s true. It’s possible and quickly,” French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told France 5 TV.

Moscow, however, has consistently denied any such intention. 

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The Russian ministry even released a video showing armoured vehicles, including tanks, infantry combat, and artillery systems, returning to base after completing their exercises, Interfax reported. 

More than a dozen countries have asked their citizens and diplomats to leave Ukraine as Russia amasses soldiers on its borders – with India being the latest addition.

Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday called for using diplomatic means to ease tensions between Russia and Ukraine, in the backdrop of an increasing threat of an invasion.  

“In Ukraine, (it is necessary) to reduce tensions, and I urge that all issues be addressed exclusively through diplomacy. I pledge to spare no effort to mobilize the international community – and step up our push for peace,” he said at a General Assembly meeting on priorities of work in 2022.