Biden Says He ‘Strongly Urged’ Putin to Refrain from Any Military Action in Ukraine

TRANSCRIPT:

BIDEN: "I also made it clear to President Putin that the United States is unwavering in our support of our allies and partners in Europe. In that vein, I expressed concern about Russia’s military buildup on Ukraine’s border and in occupied Crimea. I affirmed U.S. support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and I strongly urged him to refrain from any military action. Now is the time to deescalate. The way forward is through thoughtful dialogue and diplomatic process. The U.S. is prepared to continue constructively to move forward that process."