Russia's Approval of 'Separate Independent Republic'... Biden Talks with Zelensky for 35 Minutes

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] On the 21st (local time), as Russia recognized the separatist independence declared by pro-Russian separatists in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for 35 minutes.

According to CNN and others, President Zelensky tweeted after Russian President Vladimir Putin's national address, "I discussed the events of the past few hours with President Biden," adding, "We are starting the National Security Council." He also mentioned, "A conversation with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is also scheduled."

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki also confirmed in the afternoon that President Biden and President Zelensky spoke and discussed Russia's moves. A White House official said, "The two talked for about 35 minutes."

Meanwhile, in his national address, President Putin said, "It is necessary to make a long-delayed decision to immediately recognize the independence and sovereignty of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic in the Donbas region," and signed a presidential decree. This is seen as opening the way for Russia to openly send troops to the separatist republic forces fighting against the Ukrainian government army.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.