Moscow warns “countdown” is underway.
Tensions continue to mount over Russia’s troop movements and escalating statements about Ukraine. Last week, the State Department quietly sent special operations teams into Kyiv to help with the evacuation of non-essential employees of the embassy and their families. At the same time, Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday rejected requests from Ukraine to impose presumptive sanctions against Russia.
Russia has repeatedly cautioned against western interference. The Kremlin claims to be rankled over the position that Ukraine would join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), even though Ukraine likely would not be admitted into the alliance.
Last week the head of the Russian delegation at the Vienna negotiations issued a warning: “There arrives a moment of truth when the West either accepts our proposals or other ways will be found to safeguard Russia’s security,” he said. “I am convinced that with goodwill and a willingness to compromise in any situation, it is possible to find a way out to mutually acceptable solutions. We are running out of time. The countdown begins.” They have not explained why a countdown has begun.
Despite the massive buildup of troops and munitions along the border with Ukraine, Russia has consistently denied that it plans to invade.
Secretary Blinken said, “The U.S. is tracking intensely hour by hour and certainly day by day,” the situation there.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For wisdom for the president and his advisors as the situation between Ukraine and Russia remains tenuous.
- For Secretary Blinken as he heads efforts by the State Department to defuse the escalation.
- For U.S. officials and European allies as diplomatic efforts continue.
Sources: Reuters, CNN, Just The News
