Russian troops near the Ukrainian border will return to its permanent bases after completing its military exercises, Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said, calling for a "de-escalation" of rhetoric.
The US House of Representatives has voted overwhelmingly to provide aid to Ukraine, backing a $1 billion loan guarantee for the Kiev government and imposing sanctions over Russia's annexation of Crimea.
The 378-34 vote was in support of a package already approved by the Senate, meaning it will be sent to the White House for President Barack Obama to sign into law.
An unusually frank Nato Secretary General issued an unequivocal warning on the course of events should Russia attack Latvia or Estonia.
The West responds with sanctions and closer political ties with Ukraine as Russia's President seals the annexing of Crimea to much fanfare.
Supporters of the controversial fracking industry believe shale gas could be America's most potent weapon in the stand-off with Russia.