White House: US ready to respond immediately to Russia's recognition of so-called ‘LPR/DPR’

“We have anticipated a move like this from Russia and are ready to respond immediately,” reads the statement by White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki.

Psaki informed that President Biden would soon issue an Executive Order that would prohibit new investment, trade, and financing by U.S. persons to, from, or in the so-called ‘DPR’ and ‘LPR’ regions of Ukraine.

“This Executive Order will also provide authority to impose sanctions on any person determined to operate in those areas of Ukraine. The Departments of State and Treasury will have additional details shortly,” the White House Press Secretary added.

Additional measures related to blatant violation of Russia’s international commitments will be announced soon.

“To be clear: these measures are separate from and would be in addition to the swift and severe economic measures we have been preparing in coordination with Allies and partners should Russia further invade Ukraine,” reads the statement.

The White House underscores that it is continuing to closely consult with Allies and partners, including Ukraine, on next steps and on Russia’s ongoing escalation along the border with Ukraine.

As reported, the president of the Russian Federation signed decrees to recognize two self-proclaimed entities in the temporarily occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine.

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