Russian President Vladimir Putin holds video talks with U.S. President Joe Biden. (Photo: Reuters-Yonhap)
U.S. President Joe Biden and Russian leader Vladimir Putin have held a two-hour video summit amid heightened tensions over Ukraine.
Responding to U.S. unease about a huge Russian troop buildup on the Ukrainian border, Putin expressed concern about what he called provocative actions by Kiev.
Biden warned of a strong reaction and economic consequences in the case of a Russian invasion.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said Biden was direct and straightforward with his Russian counterpart.
[Clip: Sullivan]
"He reiterated American support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He told President Putin directly that if Russia further invades Ukraine, the United States and our European allies would respond with strong economic measures. We would provide additional defensive materials to the Ukrainians above and beyond that we're already providing. And, we would fortify our NATO allies on the eastern flank with additional capabilities in response to such an escalation. He also told President Putin there's another option, de-escalation and diplomacy."
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