U.S. Officials Discuss Plans for Potential Russian Invasion of Ukraine

Top U.S. national security officials are considering a range of military options in the event of a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine, including deploying troops to Eastern Europe and potentially conducting airstrikes.

The discussions come as Russian troops continue to amass near the Ukrainian border and tensions between the two countries remain high. President Biden has warned Russian President Vladimir Putin that the U.S. would respond with “strong economic, political and other measures” if Russia were to invade Ukraine.

In addition to military options, U.S. officials are also considering diplomatic and economic measures to deter Russia from further aggression. These could include additional economic sanctions and increased military aid to Ukraine.

The U.S. has already pledged to provide Ukraine with $200 million in security assistance, and NATO has increased its military presence in the region in recent weeks.

While U.S. officials have emphasized their commitment to diplomacy and a peaceful resolution to the conflict, they have also made it clear that they are prepared to take action if necessary.

“We’re going to be very clear and very resolute in our response,” said National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. “We are going to do everything we can to support Ukraine and deter Russia from any further aggression.”

The situation in Ukraine has been escalating since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, and tensions have continued to rise in recent weeks as Russian troops have amassed near the border. The U.S. and its allies have accused Russia of using the troop buildup as a way to intimidate Ukraine and test the resolve of the West.