G7 Nations warn Russia of massive consequences if Ukraine is invaded

The Group of Seven(G7) warned Russia on Sunday of massive consequences and severe costs if President Vladimir Putin attacks Ukraine.

The G-7 called on Russia to "de-escalate, pursue diplomatic channels, and abide by its international commitments on transparency of military activities," and praised Ukraine's "restraint."

Ukraine shares borders with both the EU and Russia, but as a former Soviet republic it has deep social and cultural ties with Russia.

However, Russia has accused Ukraine of provocation, and sought guarantees against eastward Nato expansion and deployment of weapons close to its border. The G7 Foreign Ministers meeting was held in the northern English city of Liverpool. During the meeting that concluded yesterday, the G7 delegates unitedly condemned Russia's military build-up near Ukraine and called on Moscow to de-escalate.

The US intelligence agencies had claimed that Russia could be planning a multi-front offensive on Ukraine early next year and it could involve up to 1 lakh 75 thousand troops in the operations.