German Defense Minister Sees No Sign of Russian Withdrawal, ‘Just Words’

German Defense Minister Sees No Sign of Russian Withdrawal, ‘Just Words’
German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht looks on during her visit at Munster military base, in Germany, on Feb. 7, 2022. Fabian Bimmer/Reuters
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BRUSSELS—Germany has seen no sign that Russia has withdrawn troops from the Ukraine border area, and Moscow must do so urgently to de-escalate the situation or else face harsh consequences, German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht said on Thursday.

Russia’s defense ministry said on Wednesday its forces were pulling back after exercises near Ukraine, but a senior Biden administration official said the United States does not believe Russia.