Analysis - Putin hints at war in Ukraine but may be seeking diplomatic edge

Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks to Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev (not seen) during their meeting in Baku, Azerbaijan, August 8, 2016. REUTERS/Alexander Zemlianichenko/Pool/File Photo

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Ukraine says it thinks Vladimir Putin is planning a new invasion, and it's not hard to see why: the Russian leader has built up troops on its border and resumed the hostile rhetoric that preceded his annexation of Crimea two years ago.

But despite appearances, some experts say Putin is more likely seeking advantage through diplomacy than on the battlefield, at least this time around.