Russia's latest comments come as Western countries voiced alarm over Moscow's increased military activity near Ukraine
CBS: U.S. officials warn of possible Russian military incursion into Ukraine
U.S. intelligence officials are warning European allies of a potential Russian military incursion into Ukraine, with the likelihood of one increasing as the weather gets colder.
An incursion is weather-dependent, but could happen in a matter of weeks, barring intervention from the West, U.S. officials briefed on the matter told CBS News.
Tens of thousands of Russian troops have amassed at the Ukraine border -- months after thousands of troops assembled at the border in the spring.
But unlike last spring's buildup, which was regarded as a show of force, U.S. intelligence officials are warning that this one could be in preparation for an actual incursion into the Donbass region of Eastern Ukraine.
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Update #1: US Has "Real Concerns" Over Russia On Ukraine: Antony Blinken (AFP)
Update #2: Russia set to launch winter invasion of Ukraine, US media claims (RT)
WNU Editor: Ukraine is saying this Russian "incursion" in January or February .... Ukraine Expects New Russian Military Assault in January or February (National Review). More here .... Russia preparing to attack Ukraine by late January: Ukraine defense intelligence agency chief (Military Times).
Update #3: NATO is getting involved .... NATO chief: alliance watching Russian troops near Ukraine (AP).