Joe Biden to warn Vladimir Putin of consequences of Ukraine invasion

The US president plans to consult European allies to stress the need for solidarity, as they race to head off a possible attack

Biden and Putin will hold a video call on Tuesday, with tensions soaring after Russia massed thousands of troops on the Ukraine border

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Troops and military vehicles take part in the Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine celebration in Kharkiv on Monday. Ukrainian officials said Russia has amassed more than 90,000 troops along the border. Photo: Ukraine presidential press service via EPA-EFE

Published: 6:51am, 7 Dec 2021

US President Joe Biden will warn Russian President Vladimir Putin of severe economic consequences should Russia go ahead with an invasion of Ukraine, a senior US administration official said on Monday.

Biden and Putin are to hold a video call on Tuesday as the United States tries to head off Russia from launching military action against Ukraine after Moscow massed tens of thousands of troops on the Ukraine border.

The official, briefing reporters ahead of the call, said the United States has been working with European allies about a strong response should an invasion go forward. He said the United States and Europe would impose severe economic pain.

Biden planned to consult European allies later in the day to stress the need for solidarity, he said.

Ukrainian servicemen watch as President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks during a parade marking the Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Monday. Photo: AP

“We believe there is a way forward to allow us to send a clear message to Russia that there will be enduring and meaningful costs” should an invasion take place, the official said.