May 19 Morning Update: No Evidence Of Putin’s Announced Withdrawal Of Russian Forces

 

Despite Vladimir Putin ordering Russian units near the Ukrainian border to return to their permanent bases, there have been no signs of Russian troops withdrawing yet. To be sure, this is not the first time that Russia has promised a pullback of forces in the vicinity of the Ukraine. Similar announcements have come and gone in the past weeks. Ultimately they have amounted to nothing. There has been no significant withdrawal of Russian forces. Moving its forces away from the border would help Russia de-escalate the crisis.

 

Coming this evening: Three Factors That Are Encouraging Russia In This Crisis.