Andy Bruce, William James

LONDON (Reuters), – Britain warned Moscow that it is working with Western partners in high-impact sanctions targeting Russia’s financial system should Russia invade Ukraine.

Russia has positioned around 100,000 troops close to Ukraine’s borders. While Moscow claims it doesn’t intend to invade its neighbor, President Vladimir Putin demanded legally binding guarantees that NATO would not expand eastwards.

Foreign Secretary Liz Truss stated that Russia will not tolerate the subversion campaign it is trying to undermine its democratic neighbors. To justify their aggression, they have falsely portrayed Ukraine as a danger.

Truss stated that Russia is aggressor in this situation. NATO was always a defense alliance.

Russia annexed Crimea’s Black Sea peninsula in 2014 from Ukraine. This was subject to sanctions and condemnation from Western countries. Kyiv is determined to regain the territory.

Truss stated that Russia could make a further incursion in Ukraine through military means. He also warned of “massive and coordinated sanctions” to punish Russia for its economic and strategic interests.

Truss stated that the UK was working closely with its partners to implement these sanctions. Truss added, “The UK is working together on this sanction,” Truss explained.

Putin said that NATO’s recent expansion to the east since 1991’s fall of Soviet Union poses a threat for Russia. He claims Russia has no place else to turn to. Putin has warned that the West should not ignore his concerns.

Truss indicated that she was going to Kyiv this month, and said the situation was at a critical point with only one option forward. Putin should step back from its brink.

Truss stated, “It is vital that NATO works together to counter Russia’s threatening behavior.”

Truss claimed that Britain opposed the Nord Stream 2 under-the Baltic Sea pipeline.

Truss declared that Europe should reduce its dependence on Russian oil. “Britain is opposed to Nord Stream 2, and I am working with allies to emphasize the strategic risks associated with this project.