News analysis

US, European nations cautious about Russia's troop withdrawals near Ukraine

European leaders have acknowledged that the withdrawals may represent a political shift. PHOTO: AFP
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LONDON - United States Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin is in Europe for discussions with America’s European allies, amid tentative indications that Russia may be willing to ease its military confrontation with the West over the future of Ukraine.

On Tuesday (Feb 15), Russia’s Defence Ministry confirmed that some of its troops stationed on the country’s border with Ukraine are returning to their bases “after completing their drills.”

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