US President Joe Biden seems to have agreed 'in principle' to meet Russia's President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the administration has been clear that "we are committed to pursuing diplomacy until the moment an invasion begins." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-france-agree-to-work-for-an-east-ukraine-ceasefire-joe-biden-willing-to-meet-vladimir-putin-454881" hreflang="en">Russia, France agree to work for east Ukraine ceasefire; Putin, Biden may meet</a>

In Europe, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will meet on Thursday till the invasion doesn't occur. &nbsp;

In a statement, Psaki said, "We are always ready for diplomacy. We are also ready to impose swift and severe consequences should Russia instead choose war. And currently, Russia appears to be continuing preparations for a full-scale assault on Ukraine very soon." &nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron has helped in brokering the potential talks after a day of talks with the two leaders on Sunday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-sovereignty-and-territorial-integrity-must-be-protected-china-454860">Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be protected: China</a>

Meanwhile, Russian-backed rebels in eastern Ukraine said that two civilians were killed in shelling on Monday by the Kyiv government forces, reported Russia's RIA news agency. &nbsp;

The incident occurred late on Sunday, RIA report said citing representatives of the self-proclaimed Luhansk People’s Republic. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden seems to have agreed 'in principle' to meet Russia's President Vladimir Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the administration has been clear that "we are committed to pursuing diplomacy until the moment an invasion begins.

US President Joe Biden seems to have agreed 'in principle' to meet Russia's President Vladimir Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the administration has been clear that "we are committed to pursuing diplomacy until the moment an invasion begins." Also Read: Russia, France agree to work for east Ukraine ceasefire; Putin, Biden may meet In Europe, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will meet on Thursday till the invasion doesn't occur. In a statement, Psaki said, "We are always ready for diplomacy. We are also ready to impose swift and severe consequences should Russia instead choose war. And currently, Russia appears to be continuing preparations for a full-scale assault on Ukraine very soon." French President Emmanuel Macron has helped in brokering the potential talks after a day of talks with the two leaders on Sunday. Also Read | Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be protected: China Meanwhile, Russian-backed rebels in eastern Ukraine said that two civilians were killed in shelling on Monday by the Kyiv government forces, reported Russia's RIA news agency. The incident occurred late on Sunday, RIA report said citing representatives of the self-proclaimed Luhansk People’s Republic. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden ready to meet Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins

The President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen has disclosed details of the possible sanctions that Moscow could face if it were to resort to invading into Ukraine. She has pointed out that Russia could potentially be cut off from the international financial markets altogether and could also be denied access into major export goods, listen in.

EU: 'Russia to be cut off from International financial markets if it plans to invade Ukraine'

Western powers have now stepped up their diplomatic efforts to try and see if an invasion by Russia into Ukraine can be averted. France has held a series of talks with all parties involved in a bid to try and de-escalate the rising hostilities.

France proposes Ukraine summit; Biden, Putin to de-escalate tensions

"When two elephants fight, the grass always suffers. And here, we are the grass", says Mark Sofer, former ambassador of Israel to India on the ongoing diplomacy efforts to avoid the Russian invasion in Ukraine.

Israel caught in the middle of Russia-Ukraine conflict, says Mark Sofer

The American secretary of state Antony Blinken has now said that President Joe Biden is willing to meet with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin at any time to prevent a war in Ukraine. It's also added that Russia appears to be on the verge of invading its neighbor.

Blinken: Biden to meet Putin anytime to prevent war in Ukraine

Emmanuel Macron called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to make a decision on meeting US counterpart Joe Biden in a summit proposed by France to ease soaring tensions over Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Macron proposes Biden-Putin summit to help defuse tensions

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that he is mulling the idea of recognising independence of Ukraine's two breakaway regions. He said that leaders of these territories in eastern Ukraine have appealed him to do so.

"Our goal is to listen to our colleagues and determine our next steps in this direction, bearing in mind both the appeals of the leaders of the DNR (Donetsk People's Republic) and LNR (Lugansk People's Republic) to recognise their independence," Putin said while opening a televised security council meeting.&nbsp;

He said that tensions between Russia and the West over Ukraine posed a threat to Moscow.

"The use of Ukraine as an instrument of confrontation with our country poses a serious, very big threat to us," Putin said adding that Moscow's priority was "not confrontation, but security".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-crisis-kyiv-denies-its-saboteurs-crossed-into-moscow-455109">Ukraine-Russia crisis: Kyiv denies its 'saboteurs' crossed into Moscow</a>

The Russian parliament has also asked Putin to recognise the pro-Moscow separatist territories, which declared themselves independent of Kyiv's rule after Ukraine's 2014 pro-EU revolution.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-be-killed-or-sent-to-camps-us-claims-russia-plans-to-target-dissidents-in-ukraine-455031">'To be killed or sent to camps': US claims Russia plans to target dissidents in Ukraine</a>

Calls for recognition from the rebels came as the Ukraine crisis escalated sharply on Monday, with fears mounting that Russia is paving the way for an all-out invasion of its western neighbour.

"I ask you to recognise the sovereignty and independence of the Lugansk People's Republic," separatist Leonid Pasechnik said in a video aired on Russian state television.&nbsp;

Denis Pushilin, the rebel head of the Donetsk People's Republic, made a similar appeal.&nbsp;

"On behalf of all the people of the Donetsk People's Republic, we ask you to recognise the Donetsk People's Republic as an independent, democratic legal and social state," Pushilin said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that he is mulling the idea of recognising independence of Ukraine's two breakaway regions. He said that leaders of these territories in eastern Ukraine have appealed him to do so.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that he is mulling the idea of recognising independence of Ukraine's two breakaway regions. He said that leaders of these territories in eastern Ukraine have appealed him to do so. "Our goal is to listen to our colleagues and determine our next steps in this direction, bearing in mind both the appeals of the leaders of the DNR (Donetsk People's Republic) and LNR (Lugansk People's Republic) to recognise their independence," Putin said while opening a televised security council meeting. He said that tensions between Russia and the West over Ukraine posed a threat to Moscow. "The use of Ukraine as an instrument of confrontation with our country poses a serious, very big threat to us," Putin said adding that Moscow's priority was "not confrontation, but security". Also Read | Ukraine-Russia crisis: Kyiv denies its 'saboteurs' crossed into Moscow The Russian parliament has also asked Putin to recognise the pro-Moscow separatist territories, which declared themselves independent of Kyiv's rule after Ukraine's 2014 pro-EU revolution. Also Read | 'To be killed or sent to camps': US claims Russia plans to target dissidents in Ukraine Calls for recognition from the rebels came as the Ukraine crisis escalated sharply on Monday, with fears mounting that Russia is paving the way for an all-out invasion of its western neighbour. "I ask you to recognise the sovereignty and independence of the Lugansk People's Republic," separatist Leonid Pasechnik said in a video aired on Russian state television. Denis Pushilin, the rebel head of the Donetsk People's Republic, made a similar appeal. "On behalf of all the people of the Donetsk People's Republic, we ask you to recognise the Donetsk People's Republic as an independent, democratic legal and social state," Pushilin said. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin may consider recognising independence of Ukraine's breakaway regions

U.S President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin may finally meet amid the ongoing tensions with Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron helped in brokering potential talks. Will the potential meeting between two leaders resolve the Russia-Ukraine crisis?

Will Joe Biden & Vladimir Putin meeting resolve Russia-Ukraine issue?

The United States has warned the United Nations it has information that Russia has lists of Ukrainians to be killed or sent to camps in the event of an invasion.

US warns: Russia readying list of Ukrainian targets

The United States has informed the United Nations that it believes Russia is planning to kill or detain a substantial number of critics, dissidents, and "vulnerable communities" in Ukraine during an invasion.

The report was refuted by the Kremlin.

The Washington Post reported on Sunday evening that Ambassador Bathsheba Nell Crocker, the United States' representative to the United Nations and other international organisations in Geneva, made the claims in a letter to Michelle Bachelet, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. 
 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-france-agree-to-work-for-an-east-ukraine-ceasefire-joe-biden-willing-to-meet-vladimir-putin-454881" hreflang="en">Russia, France agree to work for east Ukraine ceasefire; Putin, Biden may meet</a>

The Ambassador stated in the letter that "We have credible information that indicates Russian forces are creating lists of identified Ukrainians to be killed or sent to camps following a military occupation." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-ready-to-meet-putin-until-the-moment-ukraine-invasion-begins-454912">Also read | Biden ready to meet Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins</a>

According to Crocker in the letter, the US believes Russia will "likely target those who oppose Russian actions, including Russian and Belarusian dissidents in exile in Ukraine, journalists and anti-corruption activists, and vulnerable populations such as religious and ethnic minorities and LGBTQI+ persons." 
 
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-sovereignty-and-territorial-integrity-must-be-protected-china-454860">Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be protected: China</a>

The letter warns of widespread "human rights violations and abuses," as well as the use of unjust force against demonstrators. 
 
<img alt="letter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec3d2aa4-4765-4c0c-a477-34f3d1093119" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/11_2.JPG" /> 
<img alt="letter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="268db8e0-a24e-4a9e-a5a6-2d0186449813" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/22.JPG" />

Crocker, in her letter, says she was writing to the UN high commissioner for human rights because of its mandate and its presence in Ukraine.

The letter was released following the most recent round of diplomacy, which saw Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin agree in principle to hold a summit between the two presidents to de-escalate the Ukraine crisis.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has informed the United Nations that it believes Russia is planning to kill or detain a substantial number of critics, dissidents, and "vulnerable communities" in Ukraine during an invasion.

The United States has informed the United Nations that it believes Russia is planning to kill or detain a substantial number of critics, dissidents, and "vulnerable communities" in Ukraine during an invasion. The report was refuted by the Kremlin. The Washington Post reported on Sunday evening that Ambassador Bathsheba Nell Crocker, the United States' representative to the United Nations and other international organisations in Geneva, made the claims in a letter to Michelle Bachelet, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Also Read: Russia, France agree to work for east Ukraine ceasefire; Putin, Biden may meet The Ambassador stated in the letter that "We have credible information that indicates Russian forces are creating lists of identified Ukrainians to be killed or sent to camps following a military occupation." Also read | Biden ready to meet Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins According to Crocker in the letter, the US believes Russia will "likely target those who oppose Russian actions, including Russian and Belarusian dissidents in exile in Ukraine, journalists and anti-corruption activists, and vulnerable populations such as religious and ethnic minorities and LGBTQI+ persons." Also Read | Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be protected: China The letter warns of widespread "human rights violations and abuses," as well as the use of unjust force against demonstrators. Crocker, in her letter, says she was writing to the UN high commissioner for human rights because of its mandate and its presence in Ukraine. The letter was released following the most recent round of diplomacy, which saw Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin agree in principle to hold a summit between the two presidents to de-escalate the Ukraine crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

'To be killed or sent to camps': US claims Russia plans to target dissidents in Ukraine

Moscow&nbsp;said Monday that a&nbsp;shell&nbsp;fired&nbsp;from&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;had destroyed a&nbsp;border&nbsp;facility&nbsp;used by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), amid Western concerns about an escalation in fighting in east&nbsp;Ukraine.

"On February 21, at 9:50 am (0650 GMT), an unidentified projectile fired from Ukraine completely destroyed a border facility used by the FSB border guard service in the Rostov region, around 150 meters from the Russian-Ukrainian border," the security service said in a statement.

The statement added that no one had been injured in the incident and that Russian military engineers had arrived at the scene.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-explosion-reportedly-hits-donetsk-airport-area-kremlin-says-biden-putin-summit-premature-454999">Ukraine crisis: Explosion reportedly hits Donetsk airport area; Kremlin says Biden-Putin summit 'premature'</a>

Video released by the FSB &nbsp;showed a small, apparently one-room building with its roof and walls caved in and a Russian flag leaning against strewn debris.

Ukraine has been fighting separatists who have had Moscow's backing since 2014 when Russia annexed the Crimean peninsula after historic street protests in Kyiv. More than 14,000 people have already died in the fighting.

Kyiv's Western allies however have warned in recent weeks of a possible sharp escalation in the conflict with Russia massing an estimated force of more than 100,000 troops around Ukraine.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ballistic-cruise-missiles-in-exercises-russia-flexes-muscles-as-us-says-moscow-poised-to-strike-454638">&nbsp;Ballistic, cruise missiles in exercises: Russia flexes muscles as US says Moscow ‘poised to strike’</a>

They have also warned of staged attacks that Moscow and pro-Russian separatists could use as a pretext to launch an assault on Ukraine.

The southern Rostov region, where the FSB said the shelling took place, announced a state of emergency last week over an anticipated influx of civilians from the rebel-controlled territories whose leaders announced evacuation orders.

Moscow said Monday that a shell fired from Ukraine had destroyed a border facility used by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), amid Western concerns about an escalation in fighting in east Ukraine.

Moscow said Monday that a shell fired from Ukraine had destroyed a border facility used by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), amid Western concerns about an escalation in fighting in east Ukraine. "On February 21, at 9:50 am (0650 GMT), an unidentified projectile fired from Ukraine completely destroyed a border facility used by the FSB border guard service in the Rostov region, around 150 meters from the Russian-Ukrainian border," the security service said in a statement. The statement added that no one had been injured in the incident and that Russian military engineers had arrived at the scene. Also read | Ukraine crisis: Explosion reportedly hits Donetsk airport area; Kremlin says Biden-Putin summit 'premature' Video released by the FSB showed a small, apparently one-room building with its roof and walls caved in and a Russian flag leaning against strewn debris. Ukraine has been fighting separatists who have had Moscow's backing since 2014 when Russia annexed the Crimean peninsula after historic street protests in Kyiv. More than 14,000 people have already died in the fighting. Kyiv's Western allies however have warned in recent weeks of a possible sharp escalation in the conflict with Russia massing an estimated force of more than 100,000 troops around Ukraine. Also read | Ballistic, cruise missiles in exercises: Russia flexes muscles as US says Moscow ‘poised to strike’ They have also warned of staged attacks that Moscow and pro-Russian separatists could use as a pretext to launch an assault on Ukraine. The southern Rostov region, where the FSB said the shelling took place, announced a state of emergency last week over an anticipated influx of civilians from the rebel-controlled territories whose leaders announced evacuation orders.

Moscow says shell fired from Ukraine destroys Russian border facility

Amid rising Russia and Ukraine tensions, a&nbsp;blast was heard early on Monday in the centre of the city of&nbsp;Donetsk, which is held by Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, Reuters reported citing a witness.&nbsp;

So far, the origin of the blast was unclear.

As per reports, people evacuated from the Moscow-backed breakaway region of Donetsk wait for trains in the southwestern Russian town of Taganrog, to move deeper into the country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-russia-give-orders-to-attack-ukraine-us-media-cites-intel-inputs-that-were-apparently-known-to-biden-454927">Did Russia give orders to 'attack' Ukraine? US media cites intel inputs that were apparently known to Biden</a>

It is important to note that the Moscow-backed separatists have accused Ukraine of planning an offensive into their enclave, and ordered a general mobilisation.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed in principle to a summit over Ukraine. The news about the crucial summit was revealed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who held a telephonic conversation with the Russian leader on Sunday (February 20).&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kremlin on Monday (February 21) said that it is "premature" to organise the Biden-Putin summit over Ukraine.

"It's premature to talk about any specific plans for organising any kind of summits," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, adding that no "concrete plans" had been put in place for a meeting.&nbsp;

Russia has placed more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in recent weeks, the United States and Western allies have estimated.&nbsp;

US official told reporters Friday, insisting on anonymity that "forty to fifty per cent (of those troops) are in an attack position. They have uncoiled in tactical assembly in the last 48 hours".&nbsp;

Reports have also quoted a US official, who on Sunday said that Biden's assertion that Putin has made the decision to roll Russian forces into Ukraine was based on intelligence that Russian front-line commanders have been given orders to begin final preparations for an attack.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Explosions heard in Ukraine's Donetsk, OSCE calls for security meet to discuss de-escalation

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Amid rising Russia and Ukraine tensions, a blast was heard early on Monday in the centre of the city of Donetsk, which is held by Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, Reuters reported citing a witness.

Amid rising Russia and Ukraine tensions, a blast was heard early on Monday in the centre of the city of Donetsk, which is held by Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, Reuters reported citing a witness. So far, the origin of the blast was unclear. As per reports, people evacuated from the Moscow-backed breakaway region of Donetsk wait for trains in the southwestern Russian town of Taganrog, to move deeper into the country. ALSO READ | Did Russia give orders to 'attack' Ukraine? US media cites intel inputs that were apparently known to Biden It is important to note that the Moscow-backed separatists have accused Ukraine of planning an offensive into their enclave, and ordered a general mobilisation. US President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed in principle to a summit over Ukraine. The news about the crucial summit was revealed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who held a telephonic conversation with the Russian leader on Sunday (February 20). Meanwhile, Kremlin on Monday (February 21) said that it is "premature" to organise the Biden-Putin summit over Ukraine. "It's premature to talk about any specific plans for organising any kind of summits," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, adding that no "concrete plans" had been put in place for a meeting. Russia has placed more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in recent weeks, the United States and Western allies have estimated. US official told reporters Friday, insisting on anonymity that "forty to fifty per cent (of those troops) are in an attack position. They have uncoiled in tactical assembly in the last 48 hours". Reports have also quoted a US official, who on Sunday said that Biden's assertion that Putin has made the decision to roll Russian forces into Ukraine was based on intelligence that Russian front-line commanders have been given orders to begin final preparations for an attack. WATCH | Explosions heard in Ukraine's Donetsk, OSCE calls for security meet to discuss de-escalation ×

Ukraine crisis: Explosion reportedly hits Donetsk airport area; Kremlin says Biden-Putin summit 'premature'

All eyes are on the heightened tensions between Russia and the West over the Ukraine crisis. Nonetheless the trouble looks like a disguised relief for British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Covid, Ukraine...Is PM Boris Johnson using crisis to stem unpopularity?

Macron proposes Ukraine summit to help defuse tensions with Russia

The West remains wary of the possibility of Russia and Belarus who have now announced an extension of their military drills. The United States has said that the troops that Russia is amassing is not a bluff and is warned that Russia is now positioned in a way that it can invade into Ukraine at a moment of its choice.

Russia, Belarus extend military drills amid Ukraine tensions

US warns Russian troops build-up not a 'bluff', satellite images show new deployment near Ukraine

It's often said that it is circumstances that make people into heroes especially in times of trouble. Civilians in the Ukraine are a testament to this at a time when the West and Kremlin are locked in intense negotiations, our next report gets you all the details.

What is the cost of a looming war? | Russia-Ukraine Tensions

President Joe Biden's administration has prepared an initial package of sanctions against Russia that includes barring&nbsp;U.S. financial institutions from processing transactions for major Russian&nbsp;banks, three people familiar with the matter said.

The measures, which would only be implemented if Russia invades&nbsp;Ukraine, aim to hurt the Russian economy by&nbsp;cutting the "correspondent" banking relationships between targeted Russian banks and US banks that enable international payments.

While&nbsp;US&nbsp;authorities&nbsp;have said banking restrictions would be part of a package of possible sanctions, the administration's plan to&nbsp;cut&nbsp;correspondent banking&nbsp;ties&nbsp;- which underpin global money flows - has not previously been reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-ready-to-meet-putin-until-the-moment-ukraine-invasion-begins-454912">Biden ready to meet Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins</a>

The United States will also wield its most powerful sanctioning tool against certain Russian individuals and companies by placing them on the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list, effectively kicking them out of the&nbsp;U.S. banking system, banning their trade with Americans and freezing their&nbsp;U.S. assets, the same&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said.

The White House and Treasury Department declined to comment.

The&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said the package could change up to the last minute and it was unclear who the targets would be. However, they believe top Russian financial institutions including VTB Bank, Sberbank, VEB, and Gazprombank are possible targets.

Experts consulted by Reuters said that while the correspondent banking tool lacks the punch of an SDN designation, which freezes a bank's assets, they could still deal a meaningful blow to the target&nbsp;banks&nbsp;by making it difficult to transact in&nbsp;US&nbsp;dollars, the global reserve currency.

Much of global trade is transacted in dollars.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-secretary-of-state-mike-pompeo-to-visit-taiwan-next-week-454945">Former US&nbsp;Secretary of State&nbsp;Mike&nbsp;Pompeo to visit Taiwan next week</a>

It is unclear whether Russian&nbsp;banks&nbsp;would be added to the SDN list, but both types of sanctions could hit Russia hard.

"Since a significant number of global trade transactions are in&nbsp;U.S. dollars this is a sanction with bite, but without the more complicated and deadly sanction of being placed on the SDN list and having all assets in the&nbsp;U.S. or in the hands of&nbsp;U.S. persons frozen," said Washington lawyer Kay Georgi, who specializes in international trade.

Sources&nbsp;noted that the administration could exempt certain transactions from the restrictions if deemed necessary.

'UPFRONT COSTS'

The Biden administration has been threatening tough banking sanctions against Russia for weeks in a bid to deter Russian President Vladimir Putin from invading&nbsp;Ukraine. Moscow has amassed upwards of 150,000 troops on&nbsp;Ukraine's borders, but Putin has denied&nbsp;plans&nbsp;to launch an attack.

Peter Harrell, who sits on the National Security Council, said last month that "heavy hitting financial sanctions" were part of a strategy to hurt Russia's economy but spare its citizens.

"The goal of the financial sanctions is really to have short term upfront costs on Russia, to trigger capital flight, to trigger inflation, to make the Russian central bank provide bailouts&nbsp;to its&nbsp;banks," he said in a speech late last month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-russia-give-orders-to-attack-ukraine-us-media-cites-intel-inputs-that-were-apparently-known-to-biden-454927">Did Russia give orders to 'attack' Ukraine? US media cites intel inputs that were apparently known to Biden</a>

The tough warnings have put some&nbsp;U.S. financial firms on edge. Members of the financial services and payment industries have been in touch in recent days with the&nbsp;U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control, which administers sanctions,&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said.

Tensions grew over the weekend as Russia extended military drills in Belarus, heightening fears among Western powers of an imminent Russian invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus | Explained: The Russia-Ukraine crisis

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Biden and Putin on Sunday agreed in principle to a summit, France said, offering hope conflict could be avoided.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the United States and Britain would&nbsp;cut&nbsp;off Russian companies' access to&nbsp;U.S. dollars and British pounds if the Kremlin orders an invasion.

The Biden administration has been similarly aggressive in its rhetoric. In a briefing on Friday, Deputy National Security advisor Daleep Singh told reporters that the cost to Russia of an invasion would be "immense, both to its economy and its strategic position in the world."

President Joe Biden's administration has prepared an initial package of sanctions against Russia that includes barring U.S. financial institutions from processing transactions for major Russian banks, three people familiar with the matter said.

President Joe Biden's administration has prepared an initial package of sanctions against Russia that includes barring U.S. financial institutions from processing transactions for major Russian banks, three people familiar with the matter said. The measures, which would only be implemented if Russia invades Ukraine, aim to hurt the Russian economy by cutting the "correspondent" banking relationships between targeted Russian banks and US banks that enable international payments. While US authorities have said banking restrictions would be part of a package of possible sanctions, the administration's plan to cut correspondent banking ties - which underpin global money flows - has not previously been reported. Also read | Biden ready to meet Putin 'until the moment' Ukraine invasion begins The United States will also wield its most powerful sanctioning tool against certain Russian individuals and companies by placing them on the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list, effectively kicking them out of the U.S. banking system, banning their trade with Americans and freezing their U.S. assets, the same sources said. The White House and Treasury Department declined to comment. The sources said the package could change up to the last minute and it was unclear who the targets would be. However, they believe top Russian financial institutions including VTB Bank, Sberbank, VEB, and Gazprombank are possible targets. Experts consulted by Reuters said that while the correspondent banking tool lacks the punch of an SDN designation, which freezes a bank's assets, they could still deal a meaningful blow to the target banks by making it difficult to transact in US dollars, the global reserve currency. Much of global trade is transacted in dollars. Also read | Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to visit Taiwan next week It is unclear whether Russian banks would be added to the SDN list, but both types of sanctions could hit Russia hard. "Since a significant number of global trade transactions are in U.S. dollars this is a sanction with bite, but without the more complicated and deadly sanction of being placed on the SDN list and having all assets in the U.S. or in the hands of U.S. persons frozen," said Washington lawyer Kay Georgi, who specializes in international trade. Sources noted that the administration could exempt certain transactions from the restrictions if deemed necessary. 'UPFRONT COSTS' The Biden administration has been threatening tough banking sanctions against Russia for weeks in a bid to deter Russian President Vladimir Putin from invading Ukraine. Moscow has amassed upwards of 150,000 troops on Ukraine's borders, but Putin has denied plans to launch an attack. Peter Harrell, who sits on the National Security Council, said last month that "heavy hitting financial sanctions" were part of a strategy to hurt Russia's economy but spare its citizens. "The goal of the financial sanctions is really to have short term upfront costs on Russia, to trigger capital flight, to trigger inflation, to make the Russian central bank provide bailouts to its banks," he said in a speech late last month. Also read | Did Russia give orders to 'attack' Ukraine? US media cites intel inputs that were apparently known to Biden The tough warnings have put some U.S. financial firms on edge. Members of the financial services and payment industries have been in touch in recent days with the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control, which administers sanctions, sources said. Tensions grew over the weekend as Russia extended military drills in Belarus, heightening fears among Western powers of an imminent Russian invasion of Ukraine. Watch | Gravitas Plus | Explained: The Russia-Ukraine crisis Biden and Putin on Sunday agreed in principle to a summit, France said, offering hope conflict could be avoided. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the United States and Britain would cut off Russian companies' access to U.S. dollars and British pounds if the Kremlin orders an invasion. The Biden administration has been similarly aggressive in its rhetoric. In a briefing on Friday, Deputy National Security advisor Daleep Singh told reporters that the cost to Russia of an invasion would be "immense, both to its economy and its strategic position in the world."

US plans to cut ties with targeted Russian banks if Ukraine is invaded: Sources

Ukrainians are hopeful that tension will not escalate further. In Kyiv, residents said the situation is “worrisome” but they are not panicking yet. This comes as Russia has reportedly amassed nearly 150,000 troops along border near Ukraine.

Amid tensions with Russia, how residents in Ukrainian cities are reacting

France has asked its citizens to leave Ukraine as tensions rise. France is the latest country to ask its citizens to leave Ukraine. Meanwhile, NATO has relocated its staff from Kyiv to Lviv.

France asks citizens to leave Ukraine, NATO relocates staff from Kyiv to Lviv

In a tribute to the 'Heavenly Hundred', Prayers for peace pour in amid Russia-Ukraine tensions. Former President lays flowers at the memorial.

A tribute to the 'Heavenly Hundred': Prayers for peace pour in amid Russia-Ukraine tensions

Amid the ongoing war tensions between Ukraine and Russia, India issued an advisory for Indian nationals living in Ukraine. Students & non-essential workers are advised to leave.

Countries rush to bring back citizens: India issues an advisory for Indian nationals in Ukraine

France and Israel have asked their citizens to leave Ukraine as tensions rise. France is the latest country to ask its citizens to leave Ukraine. Meanwhile, NATO has relocated its staff from Kyiv to Lviv.

Russia-Ukraine tensions: Israel PM urges citizens to 'come home'

The world has its eyes on eastern Europe as fears of a Russian invasion continue to grow for months. Russia has amassed over a hundred thousand troops around Ukraine. Meanwhile, Demonstrators take to the streets against NATO.

Demonstrators take to streets against NATO, demand 'Implement Ukraine-Minsk treaty'

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke about the Indo-Pacific issues and ties with China at the conference in Munich. The Indian minister was speaking during the 58th Munich Security Conference.

India on Russia-Ukraine tensions, ties with China, Indo-Pacific issues & more at Munich conference

Russia has launched massive nuclear drills amid the ongoing issue with the Ukraine crisis. Russian President Vladimir Putin is overseeing the military drills.

Russia, Belarus extend drills: A sharp increase in shelling reported in Ukraine

Tensions in Ukraine escalate: India issues an advisory for Indian nationals living in Ukraine

Warning against Nato’s eastward expansion Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of every country must be safeguarded, and "Ukraine is no exception," reports the South China Morning Post.

According to the SCMP, Wang told the 58th Munich Security Conference via video link on Saturday that "all countries’ sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity must be safeguarded because these are the basic principles in international relations established through the United Nations Constitution."

"This is also what China has been upholding, with no exception regarding Ukraine. If some people are still questioning where China stands on this issue, it is deliberate hype and distortion. " 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-planning-biggest-war-since-1945-says-boris-johnson-454778">Also read | Russia planning biggest war since 1945, says Boris Johnson</a>

Wang Yi also urged the international community to oppose attempts to restart a new "Cold War.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Gravitas Plus | Explained: The Russia-Ukraine crisis

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-explained-the-russia-ukraine-crisis-454859/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Wang stated that one country's security should not be attained at the price of other countries' security, and that regional security should not be based on military blocs being strengthened.

Under the umbrella of multilateralism, we must increase solidarity and cooperation. 
 
Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-pictures-show-russian-helicopters-still-parked-in-crimea-454505">Satellite pictures show Russian helicopters still parked in Crimea</a>

Wang Yi tells the Munich Security Conference that those who question China's position on Ukraine's territorial integrity are misleading.

He does, however, warn against further Nato expansion, reflecting a position shared recently in Beijing by Presidents Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Warning against Nato’s eastward expansion Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of every country must be safeguarded, and "Ukraine is no exception," reports the South China Morning Post.

Warning against Nato’s eastward expansion Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of every country must be safeguarded, and "Ukraine is no exception," reports the South China Morning Post. According to the SCMP, Wang told the 58th Munich Security Conference via video link on Saturday that "all countries’ sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity must be safeguarded because these are the basic principles in international relations established through the United Nations Constitution." "This is also what China has been upholding, with no exception regarding Ukraine. If some people are still questioning where China stands on this issue, it is deliberate hype and distortion. " Also read | Russia planning biggest war since 1945, says Boris Johnson Wang Yi also urged the international community to oppose attempts to restart a new "Cold War. Watch | Gravitas Plus | Explained: The Russia-Ukraine crisis Wang stated that one country's security should not be attained at the price of other countries' security, and that regional security should not be based on military blocs being strengthened. Under the umbrella of multilateralism, we must increase solidarity and cooperation. Also see | Satellite pictures show Russian helicopters still parked in Crimea Wang Yi tells the Munich Security Conference that those who question China's position on Ukraine's territorial integrity are misleading. He does, however, warn against further Nato expansion, reflecting a position shared recently in Beijing by Presidents Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be protected: China

The story of the Ukraine-Russia crisis does not begin in 2021, or 2014, It begins in the 9th century. There was a time when the two countries were one. There was a time when Ukraine gave its nuclear arsenal to Russia. Palki Sharma Upadhyay will tell you why Putin wants Ukraine.

Gravitas Plus | Explained: The Russia-Ukraine crisis

There has been a rise in shelling in eastern Ukraine amid the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine. This comes at a time when people were asked to evacuate the region.

Ukraine-Russia tensions: Rise in shelling in Donbas as evacuees reach Russia

Washington accused Russian troops massed near Ukraine's border 'poised to strike' on Saturday. Russian President Vladmir Putin on Saturday observed military drills held by Russia's strategic nuclear forces.

The White House said that US President Joe Biden's national security team told him they still believed Russia could launch an attack in Ukraine "at any time" and he planned to convene his top advisers on Sunday to discuss the crisis.

Foreign ministers from the G7 group of rich nations said they had seen no evidence Russia is reducing its military activity in the area and remained "gravely concerned" about the situation.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-invading-ukraine-will-invite-bolstered-nato-on-europes-eastern-flank-harris-454615">Russia invading Ukraine will invite bolstered NATO on Europe's eastern flank: Harris</a>

Kyiv and Moscow have traded accusations over fresh shelling near th border. France and Germany have urged all or some of their citizens in Ukraine to leave.&nbsp;

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin has said that Russian forces were beginning to 'uncoil and move closer' to the border.

"We hope he (Putin) steps back from the brink of conflict," Austin told a news conference in Lithuania, saying an invasion of Ukraine was not inevitable.

Russia ordered the military build-up while demanding NATO prevent Ukraine from ever joining the alliance but says Western warnings that it is planning to invade Ukraine are hysterical and dangerous. Moscow says it is pulling back, but Washington and allies say the build-up is mounting.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-says-threat-to-taiwan-if-west-does-not-support-ukraine-454634">Boris Johnson says threat to Taiwan if West does not support Ukraine</a>

Washington and NATO say Moscow's main demands are non-starters, but in Ukraine fears are growing over Putin's plans.

Venting his frustration at a security conference in Munich, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the global security architecture was "almost broken". He urged the permanent members of the U.N. Security Council, Germany and Turkey to meet to draw up new security guarantees for his country.

"The rules that the world agreed on decades ago no longer work," Zelenskiy said. "They do not keep up with new threats ... This is a cough syrup when you need a coronavirus vaccine."

World Bank President David Malpass told Zelenskiy on Saturday the bank was readying funding to Ukraine of up to $350 million.

(With inputs from agencies)

Washington accused Russian troops massed near Ukraine's border 'poised to strike' on Saturday. Russian President Vladmir Putin on Saturday observed military drills held by Russia's strategic nuclear forces.

Washington accused Russian troops massed near Ukraine's border 'poised to strike' on Saturday. Russian President Vladmir Putin on Saturday observed military drills held by Russia's strategic nuclear forces. The White House said that US President Joe Biden's national security team told him they still believed Russia could launch an attack in Ukraine "at any time" and he planned to convene his top advisers on Sunday to discuss the crisis. Foreign ministers from the G7 group of rich nations said they had seen no evidence Russia is reducing its military activity in the area and remained "gravely concerned" about the situation. Also Read | Russia invading Ukraine will invite bolstered NATO on Europe's eastern flank: Harris Kyiv and Moscow have traded accusations over fresh shelling near th border. France and Germany have urged all or some of their citizens in Ukraine to leave. US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin has said that Russian forces were beginning to 'uncoil and move closer' to the border. "We hope he (Putin) steps back from the brink of conflict," Austin told a news conference in Lithuania, saying an invasion of Ukraine was not inevitable. Russia ordered the military build-up while demanding NATO prevent Ukraine from ever joining the alliance but says Western warnings that it is planning to invade Ukraine are hysterical and dangerous. Moscow says it is pulling back, but Washington and allies say the build-up is mounting. Also Read | Boris Johnson says threat to Taiwan if West does not support Ukraine Washington and NATO say Moscow's main demands are non-starters, but in Ukraine fears are growing over Putin's plans. Venting his frustration at a security conference in Munich, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the global security architecture was "almost broken". He urged the permanent members of the U.N. Security Council, Germany and Turkey to meet to draw up new security guarantees for his country. "The rules that the world agreed on decades ago no longer work," Zelenskiy said. "They do not keep up with new threats ... This is a cough syrup when you need a coronavirus vaccine." World Bank President David Malpass told Zelenskiy on Saturday the bank was readying funding to Ukraine of up to $350 million. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin oversees military drills, US says Russia can attack Ukraine 'at any time'

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