As Vladimir Putin threatens possible military action on Ukraine, western military analysts say Russia’s president could contemplate a wide range of scenarios — from targeted missile strikes to a limited incursion from the east or south of the country, and even a full-scale invasion backed by cyber warfare.
After deploying about 100,000 Russian soldiers close to Ukraine’s northern, eastern and southern borders, Putin has warned he has “all kinds” of options if his demands over Ukraine and Nato’s activities in the former Soviet bloc are unmet.
US intelligence shared with European allies suggests Russia is preparing a possible invasion, according to US and EU officials, who gave the caveat that Putin had not yet made a final decision. The troop build-up could be aimed at securing diplomatic concessions from US President Joe Biden, they noted. The US and Russian leaders are due to speak on the phone on Thursday ahead of negotiations between Russia, the US and Nato member states in January.