INTERNATIONAL: The United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) is keeping a close eye on escalating tension over Russia's build-up of troops on the Ukraine border and is ready to help in case conflict causes a displacement of refugees.

"We are calling for calm and we are calling for all actors to try to ratchet down the tensions, that's the overall message," UNHCR spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh has told a U.N. briefing. "In terms of contingency plans, we've been talking to partners, we have the ability to move in supplies and stuff if needed," he has added.

Tensions have escalated after Russia massed an estimated 100,000 troops within reach of the Ukrainian border, although Moscow denies any intention of invading.