US president says small number of troops to bolster the NATO presence in region as tensions remain high

As Russian troops amass on the Ukrainian border, Joseph Weisberg, author of 'Russia Upside Down,' argues that a little empathy - and eased sanctions - could go a long way

French officials take a more conciliatory tone during crisis than US and UK counterparts, claim Russian leader expressed 'no offensive plans' in call with French president

Russian foreign minister says US sanctions would amount to complete severing of ties; comments come after Biden warns Kyiv of 'distinct possibility' Moscow could invade

Anatoly Viktorov decries 'hysterical' speculations around expected Russian invasion; blames US and Europe for arming Kyiv and stoking tensions

White House looks to undercut Putin's plans by exposing them in a so-called 'prebuttal' that works better than an after-the-fact explanation

But Putin spokesman also says 'there always are prospects for continuing a dialogue' after America rejects list of Russian demands

Foreign Minister Lavrov says top officials will advise Putin on next steps when it gets US response to demands, but West still concerned Moscow planning to invade

Washington and allies worry potential economic and political sanctions over military buildup could lead to Moscow stopping deliveries to continent at height of winter

Biden says he may impose sanctions on Putin personally if Russia invades; other measures could restrict shipments of high-tech US equipment