After huddle with allies, Biden to make remarks on efforts to de-escalate Russia-Ukraine tensions
India Today
Biden will provide "an update on our continued efforts to pursue deterrence and diplomacy, and Russia’s buildup of military troops on the border of Ukraine," the White House said.
US President Joe Biden will deliver public remarks on Friday to give an update on America’s diplomatic efforts to prevent what it calls an increasingly likely Russian invasion of Ukraine amid shelling and an evacuation in eastern Ukraine.
Biden will speak at 4 pm (2100 GMT) following a call with the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, Britain, the European Union and Nato on Friday, the White House said.
The president will provide "an update on our continued efforts to pursue deterrence and diplomacy, and Russia’s buildup of military troops on the border of Ukraine," the White House said.
A source familiar with the situation said Biden will provide brief comments in the White House's Roosevelt Room on the situation, not an address to the nation.
His administration has said that a diplomatic solution remains possible if Russia chooses but that Washington and its European allies are prepared to enact harsh punishments if Moscow opts to invade. Biden on Thursday said a Russian invasion could come in the next few days.
READ | US says war appears imminent after shelling on Ukraine front line
The call comes as the US ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe said Russia's buildup of military personnel threatening Ukraine probably totals up to 190,000. Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine also announced an evacuation.
