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

Pileup of difficult moments presents challenge to twin pillars of Biden’s candidacy -- that he could get things done competently at home and restore America’s standing abroad

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

Maneuvers reflect bold attempt by Kremlin to halt decades of NATO expansion after the end of the Cold War; Putin working to strengthen alliances with countries opposed to West

In Geneva, Blinken says sides 'on a clearer path to understanding each other’s positions' amid bid to put off feared Russian invasion; Lavrov: meeting 'constructive and useful'

Press secretary says sides have reached 'stark' point in bubbling escalation, as Blinken set to meet Lavrov in effort to find common ground

Official claims Moscow has already placed positioned operatives to carry out acts of sabotage against its own proxy forces; Kremlin dismisses the claim as 'unfounded'

Ex-official predicts protests likely 'to accelerate Putin's desire to do something' in Ukraine, but lawmaker says Moscow lacks 'the capability of handling 2 crises simultaneously'

As Kazakh authorities invite Russian-dominated alliance to quell protests, US secretary of state says 'not clear why they feel the need for any outside assistance'