US and EU united against Russian aggression in Ukraine

As Russia resolutely denies any intention to invade Ukraine, even though it has amassed troops on its borders, the world fears a new conflict in Eastern Europe and calls for calming tensions. European Union foreign ministers agreed that “European security is indivisible” and urged Russia to reduce its deterioration, aggression and threats against Ukraine.

They suggested starting a constructive dialogue through international mechanisms, respecting international law.

US President Joe Biden said that he has full unanimity with European leaders regarding the gathering of Russian troops on the border with Ukraine, writes BBC. He held a video conference with European allies on Monday as Western powers pursued a common strategy against Russian action.

The UK has warned Russia of “quick” and “unprecedented” sanctions if an attack occurs.

If further Russian attacks occur in Ukraine, the leaders agreed that “allies must provide swift punitive responses, including an unprecedented package of sanctions.”

Several NATO members, including Denmark, Spain, France and the Netherlands, are already planning or considering sending fighter jets and warships to Eastern Europe to strengthen defense in the region.

Also on Monday, Boris Johnson warned that intelligence suggests Russia is planning a lightning strike on the Ukrainian capital Kiev.

“We have to make it very clear to the Kremlin, to Russia, that this would be a catastrophic step.”

The atmosphere of war hysteria follows political changes in Germany, whose foreign minister harshly declared last year that Russia would pay a high political and economic price if it violates Ukrainian citizenship.

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken warned Russia on Sunday that Washington knew all the “tactics and ways” Moscow could use to undermine the Ukrainian government, but added that the United States would continue diplomatic talks in hopes of easing tensions in Eastern Europe.

NATO allies have put all their forces on alert and are strengthening their presence in Eastern Europe. However, Moscow says the presence of provocations is growing.

Citing a number of recent announcements by some members regarding current or future deployments, NATO said on January 24 that Denmark, Spain, France and the Netherlands were planning or considering sending troops, aircraft or ships to Eastern Europe.

The announcement comes amid intelligence reports that Russia has deployed more than 125,000 troops near the Ukrainian border, raising growing concerns about a possible attack.

“NATO will continue to take all necessary measures to protect all allies, including the strengthening of the eastern part of the Alliance,” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in a statement.

US President Joe Biden has begun exploring options for strengthening US military assets in the Baltics and Eastern Europe.

Washington and its allies say many Russian demands are not an option, but have shown a willingness to discuss arms control, missile deployment and missile-building measures.

Four rounds of high-level diplomacy between Russia and the West have made no progress this month.