President Joe Biden told reporters Tuesday that he does not foresee U.S. troops moving into Ukraine.
Why it matters: Biden's comments come as tensions between Russia and Ukraine persist, and a Russian invasion of Ukraine appears increasingly likely.
Earlier this week, the Pentagon announced that 8,500 U.S. troops have been placed on "heightened preparedness to deploy" to assist NATO if necessary.
What he's saying: "There is not going to be any American forces moving into Ukraine," Biden said.
He added that the decision to put troops on high alert is "not provocative" but intended to reassure the U.S.' allies.
"We have no intention of putting American forces, or NATO forces, in Ukraine. But as I said, there will be serious economic consequences if he moves," he added, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Asked if he could see himself personally sanctioning Putin in the case of an invasion, Biden replied, "Yes...I would see that."
