Ukraine news latest — Putin amassing 500,000 troops for major new offensive, minister claims & Kyiv sends fierce warning

VLADIMIR Putin has mobilised nearly 500,000 troops ready for a major new offensive that is expected to launch in Spring, according to Ukraine’s defence minister. Madman Vladimir Putin is thought to be amassing at least half a million soldiers for a new assault in the Ukraine war – with Ukraine’s defence minister warning Russia could “try something” to mark the anniversary of the initial invasion. Mr Reznikov said: “Officially they announced 300,000 but when we see the troops at the borders, according to our assessments it is much more.” Volodymyr Zelensky added to the claim saying that “a certain increase in the occupier’s offensive actions at the front — in the east of our country.” It comes as the head of Ukraine’s marines, said: “I will separately address the Russian military: before it’s too late, run, return to your “Maruskas” [Russian women] or surrender, otherwise it’s the fate of a fertiliser on someone else’s land; a black bag or disability awaits you, this is your “happy” future.  Read our Ukraine war blog below for the latest news…