President Joe Biden has accepted “in principle” a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in what could represent a last-ditch effort at diplomacy over tensions surrounding Ukraine and a possible avenue to avert a looming invasion directed by Moscow.

Jen Psaki (White House Press Secretary) stated Sunday night that summit would take place after a meeting between Antony Blinken, Secretary of State, and Sergey Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister. This meeting will take place later in the week.

Psaki released a statement saying that the president has made it clear repeatedly that the United States is committed to diplomacy up until any invasion occurs. In principle, President Biden agreed to meet with Putin after that engagement. If it hasn’t, we will be ready for diplomacy. We’re always available for diplomatic negotiations.”