Germany has closed a gas pipeline from Russia to Europe. This is because Russia said two parts of eastern Ukraine were independent countries. Germany's leader said: "We must reassess the situation." He warned that Europe faced difficulties. He said there might be a new war in Europe, 80 years after the end of WWII.

Closing the gas pipeline is one action Western nations have taken against Russia. The U.K. took action against Russian banks and billionaires after Russia said it might enter eastern Ukraine. The USA will take action soon. Russia said it would not go into Ukraine. It said: "If there is a threat, then we will provide assistance."