The recent tensions between Russia and Ukraine have alerted many nations, warning Russia against making any sort of move that would spark conflict in the region. In light of the recent situation, US President Joe Biden will be having a video call with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin this week.
Both the White House and Kremlin said that Biden and Putin would have a video call on Tuesday. The video call comes as the situation on the border that Russia and Ukraine share has led to a buildup of Russian troops. The buildup has since stoked fears of Russia possibly invading Ukraine.
The White House confirmed the video call between the two leaders over the weekend, following the announcement from Moscow. Press Secretary Jen Psaki said that Biden would bring forward the US’ concerns regarding Russia’s military activities at the border and will also reaffirm support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Kremlin said that Putin is also set to air his concerns to the US leader, including Russia’s opposition to allowing Ukraine to join NATO. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noted that both Biden and Putin would decide how long their call will be. The last call between Biden and Putin was back in July when Biden pressed his Russian counterpart to control the Russia-based hacking groups that have been carrying out ransomware attacks against the US.
While Russia appears certain that the US will guarantee that Ukraine will not join NATO, the alliance’s secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg said that Russia has no say in expansion plans of other countries or even in the group itself. Former officials and diplomats have also said that any demand by Russia to Biden to do so is a nonstarter, according to the Associated Press.
In other related news, Biden paid tribute to former Kansas Senator Bob Dole, who passed away at 98 years old. In a statement released by the White House, Biden recalled his friendship with the former Republican lawmaker and presidential candidate.
“Bob was an American statesman like few in our history. A war hero and among the greatest of the Greatest Generation. And to me, he was also a friend whom I could look to for trusted guidance or a humorous line at just the right moment to settle our frayed nerves. I will miss my friend. But I am grateful for the times we shared and for the friendship Jill and I and our family have built with Liddy and the entire Dole family,” wrote Biden.