Ukrainian forces are bracing for another major frontline assault from Russia after learning of a large build-up of pre-battle troops in the north east.

NATO countries could face a direct confrontation with Vladimir Putin within “two years,” according to a new report from the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). The warning comes as the Russian president opted not to attend peace talks in Turkey with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Moscow is deploying intelligence specialists and experienced combat units from Ukraine in the Finnish border region - a key potential flashpoint between Russia and Nato

New satellite imagery shows a significant build-up of Russian troops and military infrastructure near the Finnish border, in a move that has alarmed Nato allies

Trump told reporters on Friday that he would speak with Putin after the Russian president skipped peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Turkey.

In a candid two-hour conversation, Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump discussed initiating immediate Ukraine peace talks, focusing on a 30-day energy ceasefire and potential economic collaboration.

Ministers from NATO states slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin for not personally attending cease-fire talks in Turkey.

Donald Trump is reported to have made the remarks following his two-hour long phone call with his Vladimir Putin.