Pakistani PM to visit Russia’s Putin as fears of war loom

ISLAMABAD (AP) — Authorities say Pakistan’s prime minister will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin this week as the prospect of a Russian invasion of Ukraine seems imminent. A statement from Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry on Tuesday said Prime Minister Imran Khan and a high-level delegation will arrive in Russia on Wednesday for a two-day official visit. Pakistan and Russia enjoy friendly relations. The summit comes as much of the West aligns against Putin amid increasing fears of a war that could cause massive casualties and energy shortages. Western leaders say Russian troops have moved into rebel-held areas in eastern Ukraine after Putin recognized their independence — but some indicated it was not yet a long-feared, full-fledged invasion.