Biden and Putin to Hold Crucial Phone Call; US Intelligence Suggests Military Action May Be Imminent
The United States has issued a grave warning regarding the heightened risk of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, with officials citing a “very distinct possibility” of military action in the coming days. The invasion could potentially include a large-scale attack on Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital. In response, the US has advised all remaining American citizens in Ukraine to leave the country within the next 48 hours.
President Joe Biden is scheduled to have a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday. While some sources suggest that Putin has already made the decision to proceed with the invasion, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan clarified that a final order has not been confirmed. However, the US government remains confident that Russia could act militarily in a short time frame, potentially before the Winter Olympics in China conclude on February 20.
The warning comes after a meeting at the White House, where Biden shared the latest intelligence on Russia’s military buildup and Putin’s intentions with NATO and EU leaders. Despite the situation appearing dire, some diplomats still believe that there is a chance to deter the invasion, pointing to potential decision points that could alter Putin’s course of action.
