Biden on Russia's aggression: U.S. prepared to respond

This was stated by U.S. President Joe Biden in his address to the nation on Tuesday, Ukrinform's own correspondent reports.

"The United States is prepared no matter what happens," he said.

He stressed that the United States is ready to engage in diplomacy with Russia – together with allies and partners – in order to strengthen stability and security in Europe. In this context, the head of the White House stressed that Western powers are now more united than ever.

"And we are ready to respond decisively to a Russian attack on Ukraine," he said, adding that the threat of invasion was “still very much a possibility.”

According to Biden, this approach has been in place for weeks and months, remaining relevant today.

Commenting on Washington's readiness for diplomatic dialogue, the White House chief stressed that the United States has already "put on the table" specific ideas on a security environment in Europe. "We’re proposing new arms control measures, new transparency measures, new strategic stability measures," Biden said.

At the same time, he stressed that the United States "will not sacrifice basic principles," including those that guarantee nations sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the freedom to set their own course and choose alliances.

If Russia chooses the path of further aggression, it will face strong sanctions and export restrictions, which will lead to the blocking of its key financial institutions, Biden said. According to the U.S. leader, this also applies to the Nord Stream 2 project, which will not be put into operation in the event of a Russian invasion.

"These measures are ready to go as soon and if Russia moves," Biden said.

The president added the United States would not be sending U.S. troops to fight Russia in Ukraine, but Washington has “supplied the Ukrainian military with equipment to help them defend themselves.  We have provided training and advice and intelligence for the same purpose.”

In addition, Biden noted, the United States is strengthening its allies on NATO’s eastern flank and has already deployed several thousand troops in the region. "An attack against one NATO country is an attack against all of us.  And the United States commitment to Article 5 is sacrosanct," said the American leader.

In the event of Russian aggression against any American in Ukraine, the response will be decisive. If Russia attacks the United States and its allies through asymmetric means, such as disruptive cyberattacks against companies and critical infrastructure, “we are prepared to respond,” said Biden.

The head of the White House expressed hope that in for the sake of a common future, the Russians will choose the path of diplomacy.

"But let there be no doubt: If Russia commits this breach by invading Ukraine, responsible nations around the world will not hesitate to respond. If we do not stand for freedom where it is at risk today, we’ll surely pay a steeper price tomorrow," he said.

Photo: Andrew Harnik / Getty Images

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