Tensions with Ukraine, Russia warns talks failure if EU makes a move

Russia's Foreign Affairs Minister Sergei Lavrov said Thursday that the European Union's joint response to Russian security proposals would lead to the failure of the talks, but insisted that Moscow is in favour of diplomacy to reduce tensions for Ukraine.

Speaking after meeting with British counterpart Liz Trus, the Russian top diplomat said he cannot understand Britain's anxiety about Russian military exercises in neighbouring Belarus, whose active phase began Thursday, Reuters writes.

Russia is believed to have over 100,000 troops near the Ukrainian border, and these days, the Russian Army will also hold joint military exercises with Belarusian forces in Belarus.

NATO, the United States and European countries have warned Russia that it will face severe sanctions if it invades Ukraine. On the other hand, Russia has submitted requests for security guarantees, including the request for Ukraine's NATO membership.

Despite tensions and harsh language, senior Western figures are making efforts to reduce tensions over disputes over Ukraine and NATO through diplomacy with Russia. France's president recently went to Moscow in an effort to ensure Russia's pledge that he will not strain the situation further.