NOTE: Before answering the questions, read the “Background” and check out the video and links under “Resources” below.

1. The first paragraph of a news article should answer the questions who, what, where and when. List the who, what, where and when of this news item. (NOTE: The remainder of a news article provides details on the why and/or how.)

2. a) Name the presidents of Russia and Ukraine.
b) Who is Sergei Shoigu?
c) How did Mr. Shoigu explain Russia’s decision to pull troops back from the border with Ukraine?

3. What warnings had President Putin issued prior to the announced troop withdrawal?

4. What is Russia leaving behind when the troops depart? Why?

5. What reason did Russia give for the troop buildup on Ukraine’s borders?

6. According to the reporter, how did military leaders and analysts interpret the Russian troop buildup? (Note: other reports expressed great concern and the possibility of imminent Russian invasion into Ukraine.)

7. Ask a parent: what do you think? Did western/NATO/U.S. sanctions and threats of sanctions, as well as President Biden’s support for Ukraine (despite reversing plans to deploy U.S. warships in the Black Sea) cause Putin to back down - or was he just saber-rattling, or was it something else? Please explain your answer.