U.S. Secretary of State Wendy Sherman has warned that military action on Russia's part could happen at any moment amid growing tensions between the West and Moscow.
"I have no idea if Putin has made the final decision, but we certainly see all indications that he is going to use military force sometime, maybe from now until mid-February," Sherman said during a political forum called Yalta European Strategy on Wednesday.
In addition, Anthony Blinkan's deputy, elaborated on the timing that could determine the opening shot of a new campaign in Eastern Europe and what could be behind a final invasion order.
"We are all aware that the Beijing Olympics start on February 4 and President Putin expects to be there," the senior official explained.
Wendy Sherman // Photo: Reuters,
"I think probably Chinese President Xi Jinping would not be enthusiastic if Putin chooses to invade Ukraine at that moment, so it may affect his timing and his thinking," Sherman argued while confirming that the US administration is "preparing for the worst."
The West is currently engaged in political contacts in order to prevent Russian action against Ukraine.
Last night (Tuesday) French President Emanuel Macron and new German Chancellor Olaf Schultz discussed the situation surrounding the security threat hovering over the continent as well as possible scenarios and joint responses.
Macron, who will speak with Putin on Friday, said Germany and France were "united" in the belief that steps were needed to reduce the escalation.
However, he warned that "if there is an attack, there will be a reaction and the price will be very high".
Much criticism has been leveled at Schultz over Germany's inaction in the face of recent actions by the Kremlin.
Earlier it was announced in Berlin that they would send "five thousand helmets" to the Ukrainian army.
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