Russian Reaction To The Resumption Of Military Operations In Ukraine

Russian President Putin. Yuri Kadobnov / Reuters

My Comment: Russian reaction has been muted (so far). Russian President Putin made the point in his remarks earlier today that this is now Ukraine President Poroshenko's war. The Russian foreign ministry has basically stated their "regrets". The Russian media is focused on the military operations that are now underway in Ukraine. Russian social media is also focused on the ongoing violence in eastern Ukraine.

I call this "the calm before the storm". I do not expect any significant response or reaction from Moscow until after a few days have passed. They are going to observe the violence, and they will cope as best as they can on handling the growing refugee crisis in the region. If (in the next few days) Moscow's pleas to Kiev on restraining their military forces are ignored .... I will then expect a more robust response .... on the economic and (by providing aid to the rebels) on the military level.

Update #1: Putin accuses Ukrainian leader of shunning road to peace -- Reuters
Update #2: Putin vows to defend Russian interests as Ukraine violence again escalates -- Washington Post