MOSCOW, (Reuters) – More than 10,000 Russian troops are returning to their base after a month-long exercise near Ukraine. Interfax, citing Russian military sources, reported this Saturday.

Interfax reported that drills took place in various regions close to Ukraine. They were also held in Crimea which Russia annexed back in 2014.

Russia deployed tens to thousands of troops in the Ukraine’s north, east, and south. This raised fears among Kyiv and Western capitals about a Russian attack.

Russia says that it denies such plans and claims that it needs promises from the West, which includes a promise by NATO to not expand NATO eastwards towards Russian borders. Russia’s security is being threatened due to Ukraine’s growing alliance with the West.

Moscow claims that its troops can be deployed on territory whenever it chooses.

According to various estimates, the Russian troop movement towards Ukraine has been between 60,000-90,000. One U.S. intelligence report suggests that it could go up to 175,000.

“A stage has been reached for combat coordination among divisions and combat crews. Squads at motorized units… is complete. Interfax reported that more than 10,000 servicemen will be marching to their permanent deployment on the terrain of the joint arms’ area for drills.