Jake Hughes
The Paw Print
Russia has moved troops into a Ukraine territory, Crimea, and has declared they will remain there until the situation is resolved. Russia is said to be protecting Russian interests and citizens.
A number of Russian soldiers have surrounded multiple Ukrainian military bases blocking any troops entering or leaving. The military bases include 17 military vehicles and Ukrainian soldiers. Russian troops have also reportedly taken control of a ferry terminal and some key airports in the city of Kerch on the eastern point of Crimea. The troubles began last month when Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovych was ousted after months of civil problems and “ultra-nationalists” protesting in the streets.A Russian representative said the Ukraine president submitted the help in writing. However, a BBC correspondent says “Ukraine’s interim government has called for more international support.”
Since 26 February Russia has had 16,000 troops in Crimea, well below the 25,000 soldiers said to be allowed in region, however, Ukraine argue that the number is 11,000 and they are breaking their agreement.No shots have been fired, and Russian troops have been said to be in good spirits despite president Obama saying “The facts on the ground in Crimea are deeply troubling.” The European Union (U.N) and the United States (U.S) were opposed to the idea of Russian troops moving in, though, China is said to be in agreement.
The EU and the U.S only obvious weapon against Russia is a trade embargo. The EU and the U.S has said they will cut their trade agreements with Russia if an agreement isn’t made. However, the EU relies heavily on Russia for its natural gas. The Russian economy is already feeling the effect of a possible sanction with the stock market falling 10 percent and the double falling to an all-time low.
A diplomatic and economic option to persuade Russia to leave the Ukraine peninsula is a priority and is preferred over military action.
What’s Been Said…