Russia is once again saying it will move troops into Eastern Ukraine, to "protect ethnic Russians from the violence". They have warned Ukraine's military to stand down and not interfere, should they cross the border.
Over two hundred thousand troops are conducting maneuvers not far from the border. On Thursday, some of the units came right up to the border and parked, making it clear they are prepared to cross. Ukraine has promised to defend itself against any further Russian intrusions.
On Tuesday, Ukraine announced the formation of a new National Guard, which will be compromised of their veteran troops and the best equipment. The government called upon the US, UK, and NATO to aid them militarily as they are outmatched by the Russian forces.
Around fifty thousand Russian troops have already occupied Crimea. The region has since declared itself independent from Ukraine and is holding a referendum, on Sunday, to decide whether or not to join Russia.
Russia continues to deny it is their troops in Crimea, noting that they do not have any kind of Russian insignia or unit markings, and claims that they are militia from within the Crimea. Despite their attempts at denial, it is clear they are Russian due to the numbers, weaponry, quality of training, and that they speak Russian. Various news sources have also caught them crossing over from Russia. Monday saw the troops begin clearing out besieged Ukrainian bases, which had previously been disarmed.
Militias are still maintaining a presence along the region's border, keeping international observers and everyday Ukrainians out. However, reports have come that in some cases they are kidnapping Ukrainian activists and reporters who attempt to cross over. In all known cases they were women in their twenties.
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