EU warns Russia of tough sanctions over Ukraine

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned on Thursday that the European Union could impose tough sanctions on Russia due to the military buildup on the eastern Ukrainian border. The statement came during a press briefing after an EU summit which focused on avoiding a Russian military invasion into neighbouring Ukraine.

Von der Leyen said the 27-member bloc was seeking good relations with Russia, but "this is very much depending on the choices made by Moscow." She reiterated a call on Russia to "de-escalate tensions and refrain from any further aggression."

 U.S. intelligence officials say Russia has moved 70,000 troops to the Ukraine-Russia border and is preparing for a possible invasion early next year. Moscow denies that it has any plans to attack Ukraine.