Threats, low expectations cloud start of U.S.-Russia talks over Ukraine

The United States and Russia began high-stakes security talks on Monday, launching a diplomatic effort to defuse soaring tensions over a Russian military buildup on its border with Ukraine. 

But a breakthrough appeared unlikely, with Moscow's threats and low expectations from both sides clouding the possibility of an end to fears Russia is planning to invade its neighbor.

Ahead of a flurry of diplomatic activity in Europe this week, Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman was holding face-to face talks with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov at the U.S. diplomatic mission in Geneva, Switzerland.

Ryabkov warned Sunday that the talks might end after a single meeting, while U.S. officials sounded similarly pessimistic.

Russian officials are set to hold more talks with NATO and European officials later this week. They come after Russian President Vladimir Putin said the “ball is in their court” for the West to respond to a list of demands the Kremlin issued last month that would significantly redraw Europe’s security landscape and which were largely dismissed by Washington and the military alliance.