Defence Minister Peter Dutton says Ukraine is in a “precarious position” as Russia gathers troops along the border.

“The Russians have been I think quite obvious in their intent, amassing troops at the border, they’re positioning assets and I think Australia as you would expect like every other country wants to see the Russians to step back,” he told Sky News Australia.

Mr Dutton said if the Russians did not deescalate tensions it “would result in tens of thousands of people losing their lives” in Ukraine.

He also criticised Russia’s position against Ukraine and said many countries “just don’t see any sense” in the approach.

Mr Dutton confirmed Australia was not expecting to be asked by the United States or NATO to join the conflict.

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