US officials react to potential Russian invasion of Ukraine this week

Officials across various parts of the U.S. government reacted on Monday to the news that Russia could invade Ukraine as early as this week – potentially on Wednesday, Feb. 16.

Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby told reporters on Monday that it's "entirely possible" Russian President Vladimir Putin could send troops to invade Ukraine with "little to no warning."

Kirby also said Putin continues to advance his readiness to invade Ukraine "should he choose to go down a military path." However, according to Kirby, Russian Foreign Minister Sergeĭ Lavrov indicated that there's still room for a diplomatic resolution.

Also, White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told media on Monday that U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson earlier in the day about the tense situation between Russia and Ukraine. Discussed were “efforts to reinforce the defensive posture on NATO’s eastern flank” and readiness to impose sanctions on Russia, should it choose to pursue further military escalations.

Plus, State Department Spokesperson Ned Price held an on-camera briefing on Monday to address the situation as well. Over the weekend, Russia reportedly carried out military exercises in neighboring Belarus, but denies that it intends to launch an offensive against Ukraine. During his briefing, Price said there is no evidence of de-escalation from Russia and an invasion "could begin at any time."

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