Biden seems resigned to invasion of Ukraine, warns Russia of sanctions

Suggests Moscow Could Get Away With A Minor Incursion, Sparks Confusion

- Chidanand.Rajghatta

Washington: In remarks that startled diplomatic and geopolitical circles, US President Joe Biden on Wednesday seemed to acknowledge the inevitability of Russia invading Ukraine, while suggesting that Moscow could get away with a minor incursion if Nato allies are divided. “I think what you’re going to see is that Russia will be held accountable if it invades. And it depends on what it does. It’s one thing if it’s aminor incursion and then we end up having a fight about what to do and not do, et cetera,” he said, appearing to suggest that only a full blown military invasion will result in punitive western response. “Militarily, they have overwhelming superiority, and on — as it relates to Ukraine. But they’ll pay a stiff price — immediately, near term, medium term, and long term — if they do.”