FLASHPOINT UKRAINE*
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Ukraine (Red) Defend*
________vs.*
___Russia Assault*
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Date: June 12, 1998*
Location: Sarny, Ukraine*
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By the late 1990's, relations between Russia and Ukraine had worsen. Facing economic and nationalistic pressures at home, the Russian government demanded Black Sea port rights from the Ukraine. The Russians also insisted that the Ukrainian government turn over all potential nuclear weapons. Feeling that their legitimacy as a sovereign nation was at stake, Ukraine refused and mobilized its large army.  The Russians struck swiftly, launching several strikes at various military bases and airfields near the border. Soviet Special Forces and the Ukrainians battled it out over an airbase.