The issue of ceding territory remains a major sticking point in negotiations, and Vladimir Putin last week reiterated his goal to take eastern Ukraine “by force” unless his demands are met.

The Russian "Doomsday Radio" station has issued a number of cryptic and concerning messages recently.

MOSCOW, Dec 11 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump's plan for peace in Ukraine includes proposals to restore Russian energy flows to Europe, major U.S. investment in Russian rare earths and energy,

Imports dipped after the invasion, and Europe placed sanctions on a number of executives at Russian fertiliser companies. But it soon made clear that the companies themselves, and the commodities they sell,

Russia has tried to make the most of the White House's national security strategy and President Trump's criticism of Europe and Ukraine's leadership of late.

The German foreign ministry’s announcement, which Russia denied, was the latest suggestion of growing Russian aggression in Europe.

The president said he had exchanged “pretty strong words” with European leaders, while Russia signaled it saw itself as increasingly on the same page as the U.S.