Russia on Monday denounced the West’s reaction to events concerning Ukraine after NATO said it would keep forces on standby and have more ships and fighter jets ready in Eastern Europe.
The Kremlin accused the West of responding with “hysteria” as the preparations signaled NATO was gearing up for possible Russian aggression against the former Soviet state, according to Reuters.
“NATO will continue to take all necessary measures to protect and defend all allies, including by reinforcing the eastern part of the alliance,” a statement from NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, Reuters reported.
The U.S. Embassy also said that “military action by Russia could come at any time,” noting that it would not be able to provide evacuation for U.S. citizens should an attack occur.
“U.S. citizens currently present in Ukraine should plan accordingly, including by availing themselves of commercial options should they choose to leave the country,” the statement added.
The embassy also noted that Ukraine had a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory in place due to “increased threats of Russian military action” and said U.S. diplomats at the embassy in Kyiv were also permitted to leave on a voluntary basis.
Though Moscow denies plans to invade Ukraine, it has for months amassed a significant military presence along the Ukrainian border.
On Sunday, before NATO’s announcement, reports indicated that President Biden was weighing dispatching more U.S. troops to NATO countries amid the increased tensions with Russia.