Ukrainians and Russians living in New York are keeping a watchful eye on the news from Ukraine, as tensions escalate between the two countries.

Ukrainian-Catholics in New York's East Village are praying for the safety of those living in their native country.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) DEACON METHODIUS OF ST GEORGE UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH SAYING:

"I would say that the animosity is not against the Russian people because the Russian and Ukrainian people. . .and we are like, have been always, close neighbors. So, there's not [sic] against the people. I would say it's most against the, maybe, government."

Political tensions remain high, after ousted Ukrainian leader Viktor Yanukovich fled to Russia. And with Russian forces in Crimea.

This Russian-American feels Ukraine should be able to decide its future:

(SOUNDBITE) (English) BORIS GILZOV, RUSSIAN-AMERICAN, SAYING:

"Well, I don't know all the facts right now, but I know the Crimea has traditionally be