Biden Says He's Confident Putin Has Decided To Invade Ukraine, But He Adds Dialogue Is Still An Option
President Joe Biden stated on Friday that he is now confident that Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to invade Ukraine, but that there is still time for dialogue.
During remarks at the White House, Biden said, "As of this moment, I am certain he's made the decision."
The President also stated that the US believes Russian forces are planning an attack on Ukraine "within the next week" or sooner, and that the attack will be directed at Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital.
On Saturday, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Russia was "getting into the necessary positions to undertake a strike," reiterating Vice President Joe Biden's claim that Putin had decided to invade.
Austin, speaking from Vilnius, Lithuania, stated, "They're uncoiling and are set to attack." "Until the very last minute, until it's not possible," Austin said, the US would try a diplomatic settlement.
Biden planned to spend the weekend at the White House, where he will meet with his national security staff and maintain regular contact with foreign leaders, monitoring the unfolding Ukraine crisis, according to numerous officials. Biden pondered going to Delaware, as he usually did, but instead chose to stay in Washington.