Kremlin Blasts US for 'Hysteria' Over Possible Russian Invasion of Ukraine

Moscow Accuses Washington of Fabricating Claims to Justify NATO Expansion

US Officials Maintain 'Grave' Threat Exists, Call for Diplomacy, Deterrence

The Kremlin has vehemently criticized the United States for fueling "hysteria" over the possibility of a Russian invasion of Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused Washington of "deliberately creating" tensions to justify NATO expansion.

The US has warned that Russia has amassed over 100,000 troops near Ukraine's border, raising concerns of an imminent invasion. US officials have urged Russia to withdraw its forces and engage in diplomacy, while also warning of "consequences" if Moscow invades.

The Kremlin has repeatedly denied plans to invade Ukraine, calling Western reports "propaganda." Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he wants a "security guarantee" from NATO that it will not expand further eastward toward Russia's borders.

The situation remains tense, with both sides trading accusations and warnings. The US has imposed sanctions on Russia and threatened more if it invades Ukraine. NATO has also reinforced its presence in Eastern Europe, while Russia has beefed up its military forces near the Ukrainian border.

International efforts are underway to defuse the crisis through diplomacy. US President Joe Biden and Putin are set to hold a virtual summit on December 7. European leaders have also been engaged in talks with both sides. However, the prospects for a diplomatic breakthrough remain uncertain.