Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Thursday that the shelling of a kindergarten in Eastern Ukraine by pro-Russian separatist forces was a big provocation. Zelenskyy urged foreign diplomats and the OSCE to remain in Ukraine, as their monitoring activities act as a deterrent to further aggression. 

Market Reaction

Amid concerning geopolitical headlines pointing towards the risk of Russia/Ukraine military escalation, markets remain in a defensive mood prior to the start of the US session. S&P 500 futures are currently trading with losses of about 0.3% on the day,  though remain within Wednesday's ranges and above the 4450 level.