Hagel: Growing threat of Russia invading Ukraine

http://www.armytimes.com/article/20140806/NEWS05/308060056/Hagel-Growing-thr
eat-Russia-invading-Ukraine

STUTTGART, GERMANY - Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel says there is a growing
threat that Russia will invade Ukraine, pointing to the increased buildup of
Russian troops along the border.

Hagel says he agrees with Poland's foreign minister, who said Wednesday that
the increase in Russian forces near Ukraine's border heightened the risk of
an invasion. Hagel says the longer Russia perpetuates tension and escalates
its military activities along the border, the situation will only get worse.

Hagel was speaking to reporters after meetings with U.S. military leaders in
Europe, including the top commander, Air Force Gen. Philip Breedlove.

U.S. and NATO officials say there are now about 20,000 Russian troops massed
just east of Ukraine's border. The U.S. also says Russia continues to train
and equip separatists battling Ukraine's government.