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US Accuses Russia of Fueling Ukraine Protests

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Tensions are rising along Ukraine's border with Russia. In recent days hundreds of pro-Russia protesters have captured key government buildings in eastern Ukraine, demanding closer ties with Moscow.

The United States is accusing Russia of fueling the protests to justify a possible military intervention.

"It is clear that Russian special forces and agents have been the catalyst behind the chaos," U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said.

With tens of thousands of Russian troops less than 20 miles from the border, NATO says any intervention would be a "historic mistake."

One top NATO general predicted it would take the Russians three to five days to carry out an invasion.

"This is a very large and very capable and very ready force," U.S. Air Force Gen. Philip M. Breedlove, who commands all NATO forces in Europe, told Reuters.

Meanwhile, hundreds of masked men with metal rods and Molotov cocktails remain in control of the main government building in Donetsk, demanding referendums be held on whether to join Russia.

"The next step is we are going to announce a referendum that is going to take place between now and, at the latest, May 11," pro-Russian activist Vadeem Chernikov said.

Like Crimea, the south and eastern parts of Ukraine hold a significant majority of ethnic Russians. Many of them would like nothing better than to be part of Russia's orbit.

Moscow is considering passing a law that would make it easier for Russian foreigners living in former Russian or USSR territories to get Russian citizenship.

Meanwhile, the United States is warning additional sanctions on Russia's energy, banking and mining sectors could be next if Moscow does not back down.

Some lawmakers, including Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., want Washington to send military aid to Ukraine.

"By withholding military assistance, the administration may think it is reducing the risk of further conflict. In fact, the opposite may be true," McCain wrote in a statement.

"The decision will appear to Putin as yet another sign of weakness, which may only invite further aggression," he warned.

Meanwhile, lawmakers in Ukraine's weak transitional government are struggling to cope with the unfolding crisis.

They broke out into violent fist fights late Tuesday as members of parliament were debating how to deal with the Russian threat.

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About The Author

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George
Thomas

Born in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and of Indian descent, CBN News’ Senior International Correspondent and Co-Anchor, George Thomas, has been traveling the globe for more than 20 years, finding the stories of people, conflicts, and issues that must be told. He has reported from more than 100 countries and has had a front-row seat to numerous global events of our day. George’s stories of faith, struggle, and hope combine the expertise of a seasoned journalist with the inspiration of a deep calling to tell the stories of the people behind the news. “I’ve always liked discovering & exploring new