Nato is sending additional ships and fighter jets to eastern Europe amid growing fears of an imminent Russian invasion of Ukraine, with Boris Johnson warning Vladimir Putin that any conflict would be “painful, violent and bloody”. Secretarygeneral, Jens Stoltenberg, said Nato would take “all necessary measures” to protect and defend its allies.
Western leaders including the US president, Joe Biden, and UK prime minister, Boris Johnson, agreed to take swift action “including an unprecedented package of sanctions” in the event of a Russian incursion in Ukraine, following a call yesterday evening.
A Downing Street spokesperson said: “The leaders stressed that diplomatic discussions with Russia remain the first priority, and welcomed talks that have already taken place between Russia and Nato allies.
“They also agreed that the international community should not tolerate any action which undermines Ukrainian sovereignty.
“The leaders agreed that, should a further Russian incursion into Ukraine happen, allies must enact swift retributive responses including an unprecedented package of sanctions. They resolved to continue co-ordinating closely on any such response.”
Britain and the US announced they were moving some staff and families from their embassies in the Ukrainian capital Kiev, and Mr Johnson said an invasion of the country would be disastrous and could end up becoming the “new Chechnya”.
The Pentagon announced yesterday that it has placed 8,500 troops on “heightened preparedness” as the White House said it is refining any plans to find a solution to Russia escalating tensions.
Pentagon spokesperson, John Kirby, said the Defence Department continues to support diplomatic efforts to deescalate the situation amid fears of a Russian invasion of its neighbour. About 125,000 Russian troops have been posted on the border of Ukraine.
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