New satellite images show massive Russian forces near Ukraine border

New satellite images revealed by a private US satellite imagery company shows a heavy army deployment by Russia in Belarus, Crimea and western parts of Russia. A Russian military buildup near Ukraine has stoked fears that Moscow may plan to attack, something that Russia denies. It says troops and hardware arriving in Belarus, north of Ukraine, are for joint manoeuvres.

New satellite images revealed by a private US satellite imagery company shows a heavy army deployment by Russia in Belarus, Crimea and western parts of Russia. Credit: Reuters Photo

Reportedly, these images were taken between January 19 and February 1 by US-based Maxar Technologies. Credit: Reuters Photo

A Russian military buildup near Ukraine has stoked fears that Moscow may plan to attack, something that Russia denies. Credit: Reuters Photo

Russia says troops and hardware arriving in Belarus, north of Ukraine, are for joint manoeuvres. Credit: Reuters Photo

Maxar said in a statement that while Russia had deployed military equipment and units near Ukraine over the past couple of months, in many cases few troops or new accommodation units for additional personnel had been observed. Credit: AFP Photo

Troop tents/shelters for personnel have been seen at virtually every deployment location in Belarus, Crimea and western Russia which suggests that the units are now accompanied with troops and have increased their overall readiness level. Credit: AFP Photo

The Belarusian Ministry of Defence has said the Russian military forces will leave Belarus after the drills. Credit: Reuters Photo

A closer view of tanks and support equipment in Yelnya, Russia is seen in this Maxar satellite image. Credit: Reuters Photo

A handout satellite photo made available on February 1, 2022 by Planet Labs PBC shows military vehicles stationed at Klintsky training camp, Russia. Credit: AFP Photo