US forces may be deployed to bolster NATO forces
The United States says it has placed an additional 8,500 troops on heightened alert as tensions escalate between Russia and the West.
The US forces could be deployed to bolster NATO forces in the region.
The defence alliance has already outlined a series of potential troop and ship deployments over fears Moscow is to invade Ukraine.
Sir Mark Lyall Grant - a former UK National Security Adviser - says that sends a warning to Russia:
NATO's Secretary General is calling on Russia to "choose the path of diplomacy".
Neither Russia or Ukraine are members of NATO - but Jens Stoltenberg says the defence alliance will take all necessary measures to protect its allies:
Last night, the Foreign Affairs Minister said his EU counterparts were not surprised by Russia's planned military exercises off Ireland's coast.
Simon Coveney briefed his peers during a meeting in Brussels yesterday afternoon.
Russia intends to use an area off the south-west coast for training purposes.
Fishermen say they'll continue to work in waters off the coast of Ireland, even if the Russian military exercises take place.
Yesterday, he Russian ambassador to Ireland insisted the military drill does not pose a threat to Ireland or anyone else.
Patrick Murphy, CEO Irish South and West Fish Producers Organisation says they intend to protest against the military exercises:
