Events in the eastern region of Ukraine continue to escalate, as pro-Russian thugs (and possibly Russian special forces operating without insignia) foment unrest and seize government buildings. The latest violence occurred in Slovyansk, where Ukrainian police were attacked by heavily armed and masked gunmen. Russia has massed tens of thousands of troops and military assets along the border with Ukraine in an attempt to intimidate the interim Ukrainian government, apparently looking for a pretext to seize parts of eastern Ukraine. It's very much the same pattern as prior to the Crimean takeover, and should deeply trouble those wanting an independent, European Union-aligned Ukraine.
(photo: Associated Press. The hidden face of Russia's intent.)
