A rise in power. The United States announced that it would impose new sanctions against Russia on Tuesday, February 22, after an initial cautious response to President Vladimir Putin’s order to deploy Russian troops in two separatist areas of Ukraine, which he recognized independence.
The United States unveiled the first limited sanctions on Monday. President Joe Biden has issued an executive order that prohibits any new investment, trade, or financing by U.S. persons to, from, or within the pro-Russian regions of Donetsk and Lugansk in southeastern Ukraine. Follow our live.
International condemnation. The UN and a majority of members of the Security Council have condemned during an emergency meeting, Russia’s recognition of the independence of the breakaway republics in eastern Ukraine and President Vladimir Putin’s order to deploy troops there.
Future European sanctions. The European Union has at the same time made it known that it will sanction “those involved” in Vladimir Putin’s decision to recognize the independence of these Ukrainian territories. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has also promised sanctions “important”.
Ukrainian request. “Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders will remain unchanged regardless of Russian statements and actions”said the Ukrainian ambassador to the UN. Ukraine asks Russia “to cancel its recognition decision” Ukrainian secessionist territories, “to return to the negotiating table” and proceed to “an immediate and verifiable withdrawal of its occupying troops”. “We remain open to diplomacy”retorted the Russian ambassador.