Biden and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy speak amid Russia's military buildup

President Biden spoke with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday afternoon as Russia's military buildup near Ukraine heightens tensions in the region.

A White House readout of the call said Mr. Biden "reaffirmed the readiness of the United States along with its allies and partners to respond decisively if Russia further invades Ukraine." The call comes a day after the U.S. delivered a response to Russia's demands, suggesting some room for progress on things like arms control in Europe, but remaining firm on Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"President Biden made clear that despite the departure of American family members of embassy personnel, the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, remains open and fully operational," the White House readout of the call said. "The leaders discussed coordinated diplomatic efforts on European security, underscoring the principle of 'nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.'"