“We still believe that Russia’s poised to go much further in launching a massive military attack against Ukraine. Hope I’m wrong about that. Hope we’re wrong about that. But Russia has only escalated its threat against the rest of Ukrainian territory, including major cities and including the capital city Kiev.”
International leaders slapping Russia with sanctions following a move sending shockwaves around the world.
In an act of defiance, Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized parts of Ukraine as independent states and has ordered his troops in.
There’s worry from Washington and beyond that this is just the start of a full-scale invasion.
Isabel Rosales is in Washington with the international response and what could come next.
Alarm and outrage from world leaders
“This is the beginning of a Russian invasion of Ukraine.”
President Biden following through on promises of more severe sanctions
Two large Russian financial institutions sanctioned.
Russia’s government cut off from Western financing
The U.S. will also sanction Russian elites.
And send more troops to Baltic States to reinforce NATO.
“If Russia goes further with this invasion we stand prepared to go further as with sanctions.”
Russian military vehicles spotted along the border with Eastern Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin formally recognized two Russian backed regions in Ukraine as Independent States Monday, ordering his troops there in an alleged peace keeping mission.
The U.S. is refuting those claims.
“He’s setting up a rationale to take more territory by force. This is a flagrant violation of international law and demands a firm response from the international community. ”
Swift condemnation from NATO allies.
“Moscow has now moved from covert attempts to de stabilized Ukraine to overt military action”
The United Kingdom freezing the assets of five Russian banks and three Oligarchs.
Russia’s biggest gas customer Germany suspending progression of a key gas pipeline.
Ukraine’s President says he believes there will be no war with Russia, but cautioned his troops will be prepared.
Diplomatic efforts continue, but prospects grow dimmer by the hour.
In Washington, Isabel Rosales.
