Summary
The Biden administration last week issued its most urgent warning yet that Russia could launch a war in Ukraine at any time. More than 100,000 Russian troops surround Ukraine on three sides, and national security adviser Jake Sullivan urged Americans to leave by the end of the weekend. U.S. officials tell our Nick Schifrin, they fear the war could start imminently.Terms:
NATO: The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is a military alliance of the United States and nearly 30 allies in Europe and North America. Because NATO was originally formed partly to counter the Soviet states led by Russia before the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia still considers NATO an adversary.
Five Facts
- What country has sent over 100,000 troops to its border with Ukraine?
- Why do U.S. officials believe invasion may be happening any day now?
- Where is Ukraine, and why is it important to Russia, according to this piece?
- Where has the U.S. and other NATO allies moved troops in recent weeks?
- How has Russia responded to accusations that it is preparing to invade?
Focus Questions
Why do you think the United States is concerned about a possible Russian invasion of Ukraine, even though it is far away and the United States has no formal military alliance with Ukraine? Media literacy: What information did this piece provide that helped you better understand the situation in eastern Europe?For More
While the European allies of the United States are aligned in opposing an invasion of Ukraine, some countries have been more optimistic about the chances of diplomacy succeeding in averting an invasion. One such country is France. You can learn more about its leaders' attempts to negotiate with Russia here:Sign up for NewsHour Classroom’s ready-to-go Daily News Lessons delivered to your inbox each morning. Fill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources.
