New satellite images show the Russian military’s buildup along the Ukrainian border

New satellite images show the Russian military’s alarming buildup along the Ukrainian border and in Crimea.

Russia’s buildup of personnel and equipment, including tanks, artillery, and armored troop carriers, has stoked fears of a future invasion — plans that Russia has denied.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday refused to rule out an invasion of Ukraine, claiming that the US and its western allies have tried to break up Russia since 1918. Putin has repeatedly accused NATO and the US of not respecting his “red lines” in Ukraine, and wants assurances that the former Soviet republic will never become a member of the alliance. Ukraine maintains a strong partnership with NATO, and has sought to join the alliance for years.

NATO has rejected Putin’s demands, but the US and Russia are poised to hold talks in January.

Experts say Putin views Ukraine as unfinished business, and is looking for an excuse to invade and blame the US and NATO.