In a virtual meeting on Tuesday, Joe Biden warned Russian President Vladimir Putin of economic consequences if he continues to grow a military presence around Ukraine.
Indeed, the warning came as tens of thousands of Russian troops stand along the Ukrainian border, heightening fears of an invasion, per the New York Times.
“President Biden voiced the deep concerns of the United States and our European allies about Russia’s escalation of forces surrounding Ukraine and made clear that the U.S. and our allies would respond with strong economic and other measures in the event of military escalation,” a White House press statement reads. “President Biden reiterated his support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and called for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy.”
The two began their meeting shortly after 10 a.m. and it ended shortly after noon. According to the White House, the two leaders also discussed ransomware and issues relating to Iran.
