As tensions simmer and troops amass along on both sides of the border, DW's Nick Connolly visited eastern Ukraine. Close to the Russian border, in the town of Milove, he spoke with locals about what it's like to live there.

Russia is bringing its security demands to talks with NATO. Moscow wants written guarantees that there will be no further eastward expansion of NATO and that Ukraine will never join the Western military alliance. Russia's stance has a long history, as DW's Emily Sherwin reports.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told DW that the military alliance was committed to its "dual track" approach to Russia and would continue both pursuing dialogue and preparing for a confrontation.

The United States has accused Russia of planning a so-called “false flag” operation in eastern Ukraine, in an attempt to create an excuse for an invasion. The Pentagon says there is evidence Russian agents might already be in the country to carry out acts of sabotage and blame Ukraine for them.

The duopoly of Western aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Boeing is under pressure. Russia's MC-21 airliner is now certified to fly and China is pushing ahead with plans to enter the international market.

How strong is the West's resolve when it comes to Ukraine? A steady diet of diplomacy is so far failing to lift the uncertainty over Vladimir Putin's true intentions when it comes to those 100,000 troops amassed at the border.

Athletes travelling to next month's Beijing Olympics were warned on Tuesday (January 18) about speaking up on human rights issues while in China for their own safety by speakers at a seminar hosted by Human Rights Watch. Rights groups have long criticized the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for awarding the Games to China, citing the treatment by the Chinese government of the Uyghurs and other Muslim minority groups, which the United States has deemed genocide.

Russia still seems to be beefing up the military presence on its border with Ukraine, while Kyiv has received military support from the US and the UK. Germany won't send weapons to Ukraine, saying that would only escalate the situation.

The West still doesn't know why war in Ukraine might happen, but it increasingly seems like it's happening. Kiev is trying to keep calm and rally support while being surrounded on three sides and being the recent victim of a cyberattack that feels like a dry run. Meanwhile, NATO countries are sending weapons and advisors while deploying fresh troops elsewhere in Eastern Europe. But that's small compared to the 100,000-plus forces amassed by Moscow.

Indian news portal The Wire has alleged authorities likey spied on journalists, politicians and business leaders, among others. The revelations come as part of a global investigation into the use of specialized phone spying software Pegasus by governments around the world.

Former Pope Benedict XVI has apologized for giving false testimony during a child sexual abuse probe. For many Catholics, the statement isn't enough; they are bitterly disappointed and demand an admission of guilt.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Wednesday he had no intention of resigning over a series of lockdown-breaking gatherings at his Downing Street office and residence, pledging to get on with the job. Johnson answered questions from MPs during a combative Prime Minister's Questions session ahead of the release of an official report into allegations of partying during lockdown that could threaten his future as prime minister.