US intelligence expects invasion of Ukraine in early 2022 with the participation of 175 thousand Russian military

US intelligence suggests Russia is preparing to launch an invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. Reported by Associated Press and The Washington Post citing sources in the White House.

According to media sources, the plans of the Russian military envisage the movement of 100 battalion tactical groups of about 175 thousand people to the Ukrainian border, as well as armored and artillery equipment. According to intelligence, 50 tactical groups numbering about 70 thousand people are now deployed near the border with Ukraine. But the build-up of forces continues, American intelligence notes. At the same time, the American authorities do not know whether Moscow has made a decision to invade or whether the buildup of forces near the borders will be used to strengthen its position in negotiations with the West.

Since the end of October, the media have been reporting a build-up of Russian troops near the border with Ukraine. This is confirmed by satellite imagery, as well as video recordings and photographs taken by eyewitnesses to the movement of troops.

Earlier, the leadership of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense said that Russia could launch an offensive in January.

US President Joe Biden December 3 announced on the preparation of a “set of comprehensive and meaningful measures” that will make it difficult for the Kremlin to implement an aggressive scenario against Kiev. He also noted that he does not recognize any “red lines”.

President Vladimir Putin spoke about the “red lines” at the “Russia Calls” forum, hinting that the Russian Federation has a sphere of influence and a “buffer” zone. According to Putin, the “red line” for Moscow will be the deployment of weapons on the territory of a neighboring country and other threats to state security. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova added that Ukraine’s accession to NATO will also be the “red line”.

At the same time, the Kremlin rejects plans to invade Ukraine.