The United States joined European countries in imposing sanctions on Russian President Vladimir Putin, among other sanctions against Russia, which began its war on Ukraine on Thursday, amid intensifying battles in different regions of Ukraine and approaching the capital, Kiev.
To view the developments of the second day (Friday) of the US invasion of Ukraine, click here.
In the following are the latest developments for this Saturday (the third day of the Russian invasion):
3 minutes ago
Canadian Prime Minister: The world will hold Russia and Belarus to account, and I affirmed with NATO leaders our unwavering support for the sovereignty of Ukraine.
Ukrainian Ambassador to the United States: Russian forces are holding 92 employees of the Chernobyl power plant hostage.
16 minutes ago
White House:
The United States joins European allies in imposing sanctions on President Putin and Minister Lavrov.
We are in contact with President Zelensky and his national security team to explore options for additional assistance.
We have been warning for weeks that President Putin is seeking to change the leadership in Ukraine.
The United States will defend every inch of NATO territory, and our commitment to Article 5 of the alliance is strict.
I have ordered the deployment of additional forces to increase our ability in Europe to support our NATO allies.
President Putin has failed to divide the West and NATO is more united and resolute than ever.
US State Department:
Washington currently has no plans for a Strategic Stability Dialogue with Russia.
Our priority in the short term is to end the violence and brutality directed by Russia to the Ukrainian state and people.
We do not want to punish the Russian people, but we are in solidarity with them.