DHAKA: Russia’s president Vladimir Putin has ordered troops near Ukraine’s border to withdraw, the Kremlin says.

Units in the Rostov, Belgorod and Bryansk regions should return to their permanent bases, a statement said.

Russia has made similar statements in the past, only for Nato to report no change.

Correspondents say the removal of some 40,000 Russian troops near the Ukrainian border could help de-escalate the Ukraine crisis.

The apparent build-up of Russian forces in the region has ratcheted up diplomatic tensions in recent weeks.

‘In connection with the completion of the planned spring phase of military training... at ranges in Rostov, Belgorod and Bryansk regions, Putin ordered the defence minister to withdraw the troops that took part in the exercises,’ the Kremlin statement said, reports the BBC.

It was unclear how many troops would be pulled out or when it would happen.

BDST: 1821 HRS, MAY 19, 2014