Global stock markets are experiencing significant declines as heightened tensions between the US and Russia regarding the Ukraine conflict create jitters among investors. The Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq have all opened lower, with futures indicating a downward trend. Major retailers, including Walmart, have reported their earnings, but the optimism surrounding these results has been overshadowed by geopolitical concerns. In particular, the escalation of the Russia-Ukraine situation has led to increased risk aversion, with many investors rushing to safe-haven assets. As tensions continue to rise, European stocks have also seen a decline, mirroring the situation in the US markets. Analysts are monitoring these developments closely, noting the potential implications for future market behavior.