Russia is threatening to “take appropriate measures” if it does not “receive a constructive answer from the West” regarding security demands.
The U.S. agreed to respond to Russia on what it deems as a military expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in the area, according to Reuters. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned in a statement that insufficient answers from the West would prompt a response from Moscow.
“If we do not receive a constructive answer from the West on our security demands, Moscow will take appropriate measures,” Lavrov said, according to Reuters.
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND – JUNE 16: U.S. President Joe Biden (2L) and Russian President Vladimir Putin meet during the U.S.-Russia summit at Villa La Grange on June 16, 2021 in Geneva, Switzerland. Biden is meeting his Russian counterpart, Putin, for the first time as president in Geneva, Switzerland. (Photo by Peter Klaunzer – Pool/Keystone via Getty Images)
Russia also responded to President Joe Biden’s comment noting he’d consider personally sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin in the event he invades Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned that sanctions would be “not painful [but] politically destructive,” slamming U.S. lawmakers as ignorant.
Biden, speaking to reporters Tuesday, said there appears to be “no change in the posture of the Russian forces.” His administration previously vowed severe economic sanctions against Russia in the event of an invasion. (RELATED: EXCLUSIVE: ‘Speak Loudly And Carry A Small Stick’: Republicans Blast Biden’s Response To Putin’s Escalation In Ukraine)