Ukrainian President Zelensky says "we are not afraid" after Russia recognises rebels, adds he expects "clear support" from West. In new comments, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky says the actions of the Russian federation are a violation of the integrity and sovereignty of the territory Ukraine. He says Ukraine's international borders will remain as they are no matter what Russia's statements.
Zelensky says that Ukraine wants peace and supports a political and diplomatic settlement.
- "We are not afraid", he declares, adding that his country is waiting for clear and effective steps of support from its international partners.
- Zelensky vows that Ukraine will not give anything to anyone.
U.S. President Joe Biden signed a decree freezing the property of certain individuals and banning certain agreements in connection with Russia's efforts to undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
According to the White House, U.S. sanctions affect all individuals who will have an economic cooperation with the so-called "DPR" and "LPR".
- Biden spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Monday to condemn Putin's action and discuss "how they will continue to coordinate their response on next steps," according to a readout from the White House.
- He also spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to reaffirm U.S. commitment "to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity," outline the "United States' response," including on sanctions, and vowed to "respond swiftly and decisively, in lock-step with its Allies and partners, to further Russian aggression against Ukraine," the statement added.
