Russian President Vladimir Putin has been hardening his rhetoric over the situation in Ukraine, saying the war in the country’s east looks like genocide.
Russian-backed rebels have been fighting Ukrainian troops there since 2014, and tensions have been growing as Russia amasses troops on the border.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden discussed recent talks with Putin in a call to his Ukrainian counterparts.
There are fears that Russia is planning to invade Ukraine, which Russia denies.
Tuesday’s Biden-Putin video call was seen as an attempt to ease tensions.
Washington and its allies have warned the Kremlin of tough sanctions if it again attacks its neighbour.
Russia has accused Ukraine of provocation, and sought guarantees against eastward Nato expansion and deployment of weapons close to Russia.
Ukrainian authorities have said Moscow could be planning a military offensive at the end of January, although US officials say it is not yet clear whether President Putin has made a decision.
