Boris Johnson warns Vladimir Putin of deep concern over Ukraine

Boris Johnson has told Vladimir Putin about his "deep concern" over Russian forces amassing on Ukraine's border.

Tensions have been growing in the area, with Ukrainian authorities saying Moscow could be planning a military offensive at the end of January.

The two leaders spoke on Monday (13 December), with Johnson reiterating the need to deescalate tensions through diplomacy.

But he also warned President Putin of "significant consequences" of any "destabilising action" by Russia.

Ukraine shares borders with both the EU and Russia, but as a former Soviet republic it has deep social and cultural ties with Russia.

However, Russia has accused Ukraine of provocation, and sought guarantees against eastward Nato expansion and deployment of weapons close to its border.

• Is Russia preparing to invade Ukraine?
• Massive consequences if Russia invades Ukraine - G7

Last week, Mr Putin hardened his rhetoric over the situation in Ukraine, saying the war in the country's east where Russian-backed rebels have been fighting Ukrainian troops there since 2014 - looked like genocide.

But on Sunday (12 DEcember), the G7 - including UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss - warned Russia of "massive consequences" if it invades Ukraine.

After the conversation between Johnson and Putin, Downing Street released a statement, saying the PM "expressed the United Kingdom's deep concern over the build-up of Russian forces on Ukraine's border, and reiterated the importance of working through diplomatic channels to deescalate tensions and identify durable solutions".

It added: "The prime minister emphasised the UK's commitment to Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty, and warned that any destabilising action would be a strategic mistake that would have significant consequences."

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