NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Thursday that the defensive alliance is concerned that Russia is trying to stage a pretext for an invasion of Ukraine, according to Reuters. Stoltenberg continued that NATO has intelligence that Russia is trying to stage a false-flag operation and reiterated that NATO nations remain concerned that they have not yet seen any signs of withdrawal of Russian troops. 

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.