The United States will no longer use the word “imminent” to describe a possible Russian invasion of Ukraine
White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki says this phrasing has been ditched, because it incorrectly implies Vladimir Putin has made a decision on whether or not his troops will attack the neighbouring nation.
The Biden administration has been criticised over recent weeks for its negative Russian rhetoric.
Ukraine also lashed out at the US, with Ukrainian leaders arguing the west is stoking the flame and harming the country’s economy.
Jen Psaki says the word was dropped when it became clear it was causing more harm than good.
US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price says the change in language is less about Ukrainian dissatisfaction and more about a change in landscape.
Joe Biden and his administration have been working to defuse tensions on Ukraine’s border following an amassing of over 100-thousand troops.
Washington has been pushing a diplomatic resolution, while also threatening harsh economic penalties if Russia invades.
Meanwhile, the Pentagon will deploy an additional 3,000 troops to Germany, Poland and Romania to aid NATO allies.
