Massing Russian troops on the borders of Ukraine have elevated tensions between eastern and western powers in a way not seen since the cold war.
The 100,000+ Russian troops near the Ukrainian border offer a threat of invasion that now rests heavily on the minds of ordinary Ukrainian citizens. Pre-packing emergency bags, kits and supplies is now commonplace for residents of Kyiv, Ukraine's capital city.
The NATO question
One of the core issues that's ignited this tension is NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, a military alliance of 30 countries including the US, UK, France, Italy and Germany that promises to defend any member that comes under attack. In December Russia wanted assurances that NATO would limit the resources and troops that it massed in eastern Europe, including a ban on Ukraine ever formally joining the alliance.
It's hard to overstate NATO's influence in geopolitics. According to data from SIPRI, members of NATO account for more than 57% of total global military spending, with the US alone accounting for 40% of all global defense spend. NATO allies delivered written confirmation this week that any ban on new NATO members in eastern Europe was a "non-starter", suggesting tensions are likely here to stay, even as talks continue.
