US Condemns Russia's Recognition of Donbas Independence... Trade and Financial Sanctions to Be Imposed Soon (Comprehensive)

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] On the 21st (local time), the U.S. administration under Joe Biden strongly condemned Russia's recognition of the self-proclaimed independent republics of the pro-Russian separatists in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine and announced that sanctions against the region would be imposed soon. The West, including the United States, views Russia's decision as a prelude to invasion.

The White House, in a statement issued under spokesperson Jen Psaki's name, said, "We anticipated this move and are ready to respond immediately," adding, "Sanctions will be announced soon."

Spokesperson Psaki explained, "President Biden will issue an executive order banning new U.S. investments, trade, and financial transactions in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and Luhansk People's Republic (LPR) regions," adding, "This also includes sanctioning individuals operating in these areas within Ukraine."

The U.S. State Department and Treasury Department are expected to announce additional details soon.

Psaki also mentioned, "We will announce further measures regarding Russia's violation of international agreements." She added that these measures are separate from the "swift and severe economic actions" prepared with allies in anticipation of Russia's further invasion of Ukraine.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also issued a separate statement strongly condemning Russia. He pointed out that Russia's decision is a "clear rejection of the Minsk peace agreements" and contradicts Russia's previous commitments to resolve the Ukraine crisis diplomatically. He emphasized that the measures aim to prevent Russia from benefiting from violations of international law and are not targeted at the Ukrainian government or people.

President Biden spoke for about 35 minutes with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss response measures. According to the White House, during the call, President Biden reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to Ukraine's territory and sovereignty and shared the status of sanctions preparations.

He also spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

Meanwhile, President Vladimir Putin, in a national address on state television, stated, "It is necessary to make a long-delayed decision to immediately recognize the independence and sovereignty of the Donetsk People's Republic and Luhansk People's Republic in the Donbas region," and signed a decree recognizing their independence. This is seen as opening the way for Russia to openly deploy troops to support the separatist republic forces fighting against the Ukrainian government forces in the region.

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