Tensions Grow as US, Russia Meet About Ukraine

As key diplomats from the U.S. and Russia meet Friday, fears are growing about a potential Russian invasion or attack on Ukraine.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov Friday aimed at curbing a potential invasion. Blinken said the U.S. would mount a "united, swift and severe response" if Russia attacks Ukraine; roughly 100,000 Russian troops are gathered near the Ukrainian border. Moscow denies planning an attack and is reportedly concerned that Western powers are threatening Russia’s security. Ahead of the meeting, the U.S. said NATO allies in Europe could provide additional arms to Ukraine. Biden said in a press conference Wednesday that "It’s one thing if it’s a minor incursion and then we end up having a fight about what to do and not do," a quote that raised questions about how the U.S. and allies would respond to an attack. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy tweeted in response that "there are no minor incursions and small nations." Biden clarified Thursday that a Russian military offensive would prompt "a severe and coordinated economic response" from the U.S.

The Russia-Ukraine situation has been covered prominently across the spectrum. Coverage from many sources, especially right-rated ones, tended to highlight Biden's "minor incursion" remark and its potential consequences.