Obama vs. Putin - Ukraine Crisis Latest

The White House: Readout of Telephone call between President Obama and Putin on the Crisis in the Ukraine, " President Putin called President Obama today to discuss the U.S. proposal for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis in Ukraine, which Secretary Kerry had again presented to Foreign Minister Lavrov at the meeting at the Hague earlier this week, and which we developed following U.S. consultations with our Ukrainian and European partners.  President Obama suggested that Russia put a concrete response in writing and the presidents agreed that Kerry and Lavrov would meet to discuss next steps.

President Obama noted that the Ukrainian government continues to take a restrained and de-escalatory approach to the crisis and is moving ahead with constitutional reform and democratic elections, and urged Russia to support this process and avoid further provocations, including the buildup of forces on its border with Ukraine.

President Obama underscored to President Putin that the United States continues to support a diplomatic  path in close consultation with the Government of Ukraine and in support of the Ukrainian people with the aim of de-escalation of the crisis.  President Obama made clear that this remains possible only if Russia pulls back its troops and does not take any steps to further violate Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.  President Obama reiterated that the United States has strongly opposed the actions that Russia has already taken to violate Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. ".

Lets Get Real:

Interesting, it was  Putin who called the Oval Office, has the economic sanctions started to work, is he worried that there might be harder sanctions, or is this just a bluff while his Army gets read to invade the East of Ukraine.   Is the Russian Army not quite ready fight a War in the Ukraine, are there internal pressures from Putin's rich friends for him to back off, God its like the Cold War, reading the smoke signals from the Kremlin.   This weekend could be interesting, either WAR on talk talk, this move by Putin might mean that he has flinched at the final move of an invasion, so many questions, not to many answers. 

Is there a planned Russian Invasion of the Ukraine ?- Ukraine Crisis Latest

Telegraph: Reports on the speculated Russian Invasion of the Ukraine, the article notes from a reporter on the ground, " As President Obama warns that Russian troops are 'massing along border', the Telegraph goes in search of Putin's invisible army ".

Lets Get Real:

The article is almost light hearted, from the correspondent on the ground, there is NO invasion force, the article notes the following, " It is almost perfect tank country, as local history testifies. But the rich earth may still be too boggy - and the rivers too high - to provide a decent surface for Russia’s heavy T-90 tanks. ".  One has to ask is Putin just driving the West crazy with worry for something he has no plans to do, even the Kremlin must know it would not be a walk over in the East of the Ukraine, the Russian natives of East are not a majority, one can expect resistance from the Army of the Ukraine, the US could supply military arms, Obama does not want Putin on the Polish border or close to the Baltic States.   The reporter has either found the TRUTH, e.g no invasion or he will look like a fool, time will tell when it comes to the Ukraine.   Sky News just reported that President Obama has talked to President Putin and asked him to remove his troops from the border and start talks with the new Kiev Government, the CIA and NSA must smell that the Russian Bear is up to no good, who is right, the Telegraph or US Intelligence. 

Remove Russian troops from border of Ukraine - Obama - Ukraine Latest

BBC News: Reports that President Obama has called for Russia " to "move back its troops" on Ukraine's border and lower tensions. ".

Lets Get Real:

The White House must be worried that while POTUS is travelling the Russians will make a move on the Ukraine, there has been a drum beat of reports that Russia has thousands of troops on the Russian/Ukraine border, last night Fox News had footage that seemed to show Russians tanks on the move, the location of and time of the footage could not be confirmed by Fox.    One can postulate that the Kremlin  is waiting for the weekend,  hoping to catch the West out, also weekends are break periods, while Western population enjoy the weekend break and their leaders take the rest the Kremlin could move, but that is only a guess, something is up, the question is what is the Kremlin's game. 

POTUS on Ukraine - Ukraine Crisis Latest

The White House: Reports the following remarks by President Obama on the Ukraine at a press conference with the Prime Minister of Italy, " I think that I’ve been very clear in saying that we are going to do everything we can to support Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.  But I think that it’s also important for us not to promise and then not be able to deliver.  There are ways for us to hopefully influence Russian decision-making, and one of the most important things that we can do on that front is ensure that the Ukrainian government is stable, that its finances are stable, and that elections go forward as currently scheduled so that we have a legitimate, strong, representative, inclusive government with an economic program that it is implementing and carrying out.

 

And all those things are in place, but we’re going to have to put a lot of resources and a lot of effort -- not just the United States, but Europe as well.

And I’ve been very impressed with Prime Minister Yatsenyuk and his current efforts.  The decision to go forward with an IMF program with a lot of resources is going to require a lot of courage.  But keep in mind that part of what prompted the original protests that led to the previous President leaving was an objection about the same corrupt practices, an economy that was completely inefficient that had led to a situation in which Poland’s GDP had skyrocketed and the Ukraine’s had plummeted when they started off at the same place just several years ago. ".

Lets Get Real:

This is an open invite for Russia to take the East and South of Ukraine, the new Kiev Government needs military support, no one is talking about boots on the ground, what the West could do is send in arms and the latest technology to allow the Kiev Government to fight back should Russia take action, if the Russians have a walk over they might get the wrong idea and try for the Baltic States, the Baltic States are members of NATO, the US would have to come to their help, its a Treaty obligation that Obama could not get out off, better not to have that problem, build the Kiev Government up with money and weapons, if US intelligence is right, and that is a open question the Russians could invade the Ukraine in days, then what for the Oval, they could be on the door step of Poland.   That should be a nightmare for any US President. 

Russian THREAT to Ukraine - US Intelligence - Ukraine Crisis Latest

CNN - Politics: Reports the following, " A new classified intelligence assessment concludes it is more likely than previously thought that Russian forces will enter eastern Ukraine, CNN has learned. ".

Lets Get Real:

Thus as asked in my previous post WHAT is Putin waiting for, could there be covert and overt plans in the mix, as stated previously is there a Covert False Flag operation, or is Russian intelligence pushing for Russian radicals in the East to cause more problems, riots etc, this would be seen as a reason by Moscow to send in the troops.   This blogger has been thinking for days, WHY the delay, it could be that Putin has not made his mind up or he is getting pressure from his rich friends not to push the West to far or they will get their assets frozen.   If Putin is living on another Planet it could be that he is waiting for his lucky day or hour who knows, what can not be argued is that you can not keep troops on constant alert, you lose them after a while, they get bored and restless and can cause you problems if you wait to long.   Lets hope as stated that CIA, NSA and MI6 have their eyes and ears open. 

US AID for the Ukraine - Ukraine Crisis Latest

Guardian: Reports the following from Capital Hill, " Congress approves major Ukraine aid package..Partisan bickering had held up $1bn in loan guarantees, but Senate and House pass bills to help shore up Ukraine economy ".

Lets Get Real:

This should help the new Kiev Government in the Ukraine, also as the article notes the IMF over all with give Kiev 27 billion dollars over the next two years, this will help the rocky Ukraine finances, there will be problems but at least the West is supporting a Government that wants to be part of the West, the previous President looted the Ukraine of its treasure and did a runner to Russia.   The BIG question is WHY Russia has still not acted, as noted in previous post the US Intelligence Community thought that Putin would invade the East Ukraine, with his thousands of troops on the borders.   It has been reported that 30 thousand troops are ready while others are on alert, you can not keep troops battle ready for days on end and have others on alert, either Putin is going for gold, that means the whole of the Ukraine or he will take his victory in the Crimea and wait his time, this blog is not sure what Putin is waiting for, is there a covert action that is planned that will give Putin the PR cover for invasion as with with Hitler with Poland in 1939, Hitler had German troops dressed up as Polish troops and then had them attack fellow Germans in Germany, is Putin waiting for that or more violence in the East Ukraine mounted by Russian intelligence.  The wait is interesting, WHY!. 

G7 vs. Russia - Ukraine Crisis Latest

The White House: Has released the following statement by the G7, " The Hague Declaration

1. We, the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission met in The Hague to reaffirm our support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence.

2. International law prohibits the acquisition of part or all of another state’s territory through coercion or force.  To do so violates the principles upon which the international system is built.  We condemn the illegal referendum held in Crimea in violation of Ukraine’s constitution.  We also strongly condemn Russia’s illegal attempt to annex Crimea in contravention of international law and specific international obligations.  We do not recognize either. 

3. Today, we reaffirm that Russia’s actions will have significant consequences.  This clear violation of international law is a serious challenge to the rule of law around the world and should be a concern for all nations.  In response to Russia’s violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to demonstrate our determination to respond to these illegal actions, individually and collectively we have imposed a variety of sanctions against Russia and those individuals and entities responsible.  We remain ready to intensify actions including coordinated sectoral sanctions that will have an increasingly significant impact on the Russian economy, if Russia continues to escalate this situation. 

4. We remind Russia of its international obligations, and its responsibilities including those for the world economy.  Russia has a clear choice to make.  Diplomatic avenues to de-escalate the situation remain open, and we encourage the Russian Government to take them.  Russia must respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, begin discussions with the Government of Ukraine, and avail itself of offers of international mediation and monitoring to address any legitimate concerns.

5.  The Russian Federation’s support for the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine is a step in the right direction.  We look forward to the mission’s early deployment, in order to facilitate the dialogue on the ground, reduce tensions and promote normalization of the situation, and we call on all parties to ensure that Special Monitoring Mission members have safe and secure access throughout Ukraine to fulfill their mandate.

6.  This Group came together because of shared beliefs and shared responsibilities.  Russia’s actions in recent weeks are not consistent with them.  Under these circumstances, we will not participate in the planned Sochi Summit.  We will suspend our participation in the G-8 until Russia changes course and the environment comes back to where the G-8 is able to have a meaningful discussion and will meet again in G-7 format at the same time as planned, in June 2014, in Brussels, to discuss the broad agenda we have together.  We have also advised our Foreign Ministers not to attend the April meeting in Moscow.  In addition, we have decided that G-7 Energy Ministers will meet to discuss ways to strengthen our collective energy security.

7.  At the same time, we stand firm in our support for the people of Ukraine who seek to restore unity, democracy, political stability, and economic prosperity to their country.   We commend the Ukrainian government’s ambitious reform agenda and will support its implementation as Ukraine seeks to start a new chapter in its history, grounded on a broad-based constitutional reform, free and fair presidential elections in May, promotion of human rights and respect of national minorities.

8. The International Monetary Fund has a central role leading the international effort to support Ukrainian reform, lessening Ukraine's economic vulnerabilities, and better integrating the country as a market economy in the multilateral system.  We strongly support the IMF's work with the Ukrainian authorities and urge them to reach a rapid conclusion.  IMF support will be critical in unlocking additional assistance from the World Bank, other international financial institutions, the EU, and bilateral sources.  We remain united in our commitment to provide strong financial backing to Ukraine, to co-ordinate our technical assistance, and to provide assistance in other areas, including measures to enhance trade and strengthen energy security. "

Lets Get Real:

This will not worry President Putin of Russia, he is restoring Imperial Russia, and in some respects the old USSR, the Kremlin 1 - The West 0.   There will be more trouble form Moscow, weakness makes the bear take more risks, this is 1938 all over again. 

US sees Russian THREAT to Ukraine - Ukraine Crisis Latest

CNN - Politics: Reports the following from Washington D.C, " Based on intelligence, Obama administration officials are very concerned the Russians are not being truthful when they say their forces near Ukraine's eastern and southern borders are merely there for training exercises, .. ".

Lets Get Real:

Lets hope in this case this is an over reaction from the Intelligence community after the failure to see that Putin would go in to the Crimea, if Russia does go in to the East and South then we are talking a new ball game, the EU and US would have to near economic breaking sanctions on Russia, and also support the Kiev Government, an invasion would show that THE Russia word could not be trusted, it would be back to the Cold War.  One would think that the Kremlin would take the WIN in the Crimea and back off, in less it sees that the US and EU as weak and goes for gold, entire Ukraine.   Lets hope the CIA, NSA and MI6 have their eyes and ears open over the next few days. 

After Crimea WHAT NEXT ? - Ukraine Crisis Latest

BBC News: Reports the latest from the Crimea Crisis, " President Vladimir Putin has signed a law formalising Russia's takeover of Crimea from Ukraine, despite fresh sanctions from the EU and the US. "

Lets Get Real:

One can postulate, and this is just a guess that the Crimea crisis is at an end, Putin has got the Ukraine with a slap of the hand from the EU and the US, if Putin is clever he will take this win and use covert means to cause problems in the East of Ukraine.   Putin must know that he does not want to get to close to NATO, if a War breakout between the Ukraine and Russia it would drag in the US, Obama would be forced to re- supply the Kiev Government with arms, one does not want the Super Powers that close and in a hot war.   Thus what next, NOTHING is a option, an ice cold relationship between Putin's Russia and the West, the Ukraine become a member of the EU and NATO in time, faster than expected because the West does not want Russia to see that it has a free hand in the Ukraine, so in the long term it can be argued that the takeover of the Crimea was a strategic mistake by Putin, he just might have lost the Ukraine to the West for the future. 

No Russian Invasion of East Ukraine - Russia - Ukraine Latest

Telegraph: Reports in its 9.45pm post the following, " Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has apparently promised his Chuck Hagel, his US counterpart, that Moscow has no plans to invade eastern Ukraine. ".

Lets Get Real:

This is the test, can the word of Russia be trusted, if THEY are being honest then we are on the same page at least, if this is another lie from Russia then we shall see more sanctions, even the chance of a regional war in the Ukraine, with the West supporting the Kiev Government vs. Russia.   This is a chance for Russia to get out of the hole it has created and to keep the Crimea, otherwise how much is a nuclear bunker these days. 

Review of US Sanctions on Russia - Ukraine Latest

Guardian: Reports the following on US sanctions on Russia, " Obama extends sanctions against Russia to include wealthy Putin allies..White House suggests executive order might not be the end of measures taken in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine ".

Lets Get Real:

Lets hope these new US sanctions get the attention of the Kremlin, the new Russia is not the OLD USSR, Russia in connected to the international money system, thus previous Cold War sanctions had less effect, these new sanctions should bite those close to Putin, its a clear signal, NO EAST UKRAINE invasion, or worse will to come.   On the other hand Putin might see this as a golden chance to take the whole of the Ukraine, otherwise Ukraine might become part of the EU and NATO, then its over for any chance of Russia taking over the Ukraine.   Lets hope Putin has big ears and hears this bell otherwise the new cold war 2 will get hot. 

Sanctions Day between US and Russia - Ukraine Crisis Latest

BBC News: Reports on Russian sanctions on the US, the article notes the following, " Among those targeted are some of the most senior Congressmen - Harry Reid, John Boehner and John McCain - as well as one of President Obama's national security advisers, Benjamin Rhodes. ".

Lets Get Real:

This time the US can laugh at Russian sanctions, this kind of measure will get all those on the list respect from their individual political bases and make it hard for their opposition to challenge them when it comes to Russia and the Ukraine.   This shows that Moscow does not either understand the US system or only wants to see what it wants, either is BAD.   The latest US sanctions below are much more harder, they should get the attention of the Kremlin and those close to President Putin, one could be wrong but one gets the impression that Russia will not go for East Ukraine, it might push the West to openly arm the Kiev Government and draw in the West in to a fight with Russia, this is only a guess, we shall in the hours and days ahead. 

More US Sanctions on Russia - Ukraine Crisis Latest

For the Historical record:

The following remarks by President Obama on the latest US sanctions on Russian for the take over of the Crimea, the most interesting are the following, " Based on the executive order that I signed in response to Russia’s initial intervention in Ukraine, we’re imposing sanctions on more senior officials of the Russian government.  In addition, we are today sanctioning a number of other individuals with substantial resources and influence who provide material support to the Russian leadership, as well as a bank that provides material support to these individuals.

Now, we’re taking these steps as part of our response to what Russia has already done in Crimea.  At the same time, the world is watching with grave concern as Russia has positioned its military in a way that could lead to further incursions into southern and eastern Ukraine.  For this reason, we’ve been working closely with our European partners to develop more severe actions that could be taken if Russia continues to escalate the situation.

As part of that process, I signed a new executive order today that gives us the authority to impose sanctions not just on individuals but on key sectors of the Russian economy.  This is not our preferred outcome.  These sanctions would not only have a significant impact on the Russian economy, but could also be disruptive to the global economy.  However, Russia must know that further escalation will only isolate it further from the international community.  The basic principles that govern relations between nations in Europe and around the world must be upheld in the 21st century.  That includes respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity -- the notion that nations do not simply redraw borders, or make decisions at the expense of their neighbors simply because they are larger or more powerful.

One of our other top priorities continues to be providing assistance to the government of Ukraine so it can stabilize its economy and meet the basic needs of the Ukrainian people.  As I travel to Europe next week to meet with the G7 and other European and Asian allies, I once again urge Congress to pass legislation that is necessary to provide this assistance -- and do it right away.  Expressions of support are not enough.  We need action.  I also hope that the IMF moves swiftly to provide a significant package of support for Ukrainians as they pursue reforms.

In Europe, I’ll also be reinforcing a message that Vice President Biden carried to Poland and the Baltic states this week:  America’s support for our NATO allies is unwavering.  We’re bound together by our profound Article 5 commitment to defend one another, and by a set of shared values that so many generations sacrificed for.  We’ve already increased our support for our Eastern European allies, and we will continue to strengthen NATO’s collective defense, and we will step up our cooperation with Europe on economic and energy issues as well.".

Has a DIRTY War started in the Crimea - Ukraine Latest

Telegraph - Ukraine Live: Reports the the following in its 7.36pm post, " In an interview with the BBC, Vladyslav Seleznyov, a spokesman for the Ukrainian defence ministry, has pretty shockingly claimed that armed attackers used the commander of a Ukrainian military unit in Simferopol as a live shield to gain access to the building. ".

Lets Get Real:

The Crimea and Ukraine could become a VERY dirty War, there are feuds that go back centuries, thus one has to wonder what kind of box that Putin has opened, that is the problem when you invade another Country but you still have opposition forces in bases that they will not give up, this could go either way, Moscow should tell its local supporters and troops to STOP any more such attacks, and Kiev should only allow its troops to fight back if they are under direct threat, otherwise this first military death could be one of many.   Lets see who leads, the top or local events. 

Ukrainian Troops in Crimea to use Arms to Defend - Ukraine Latest

Guardian - Ukraine Live: Reports in its 6.13pm post the following, " Ukrainian forces have been authorized to use weapons to defend themselves, Reuters reports, citing acting President Turchynov’s press service. Other sources have confirmed with Ukrainian military sources. ".

Lets Get Real:

Its one thing to take over the Crimea, its another when you have to deal with the Ukrainian troops in Ukrainian bases in the Crimea, the death of an Ukrainian Office will make all sides edgy, tension can boil over, mistakes can happen, the West can not tell Kiev not to defend itself, and Moscow can not control the Russian hotheads in the East of Ukraine, they might think that if they cause enough trouble that Russian will come to support them, even if Moscow just wants the Crimea it statement that it would defend the rights of native Russians in the Ukraine could leads to protests and violence in the East, will Moscow not act, starting something does not mean to control the outcome, tense says ahead for the Ukraine and the West. 

The Shot that starts a WAR between Russia and the Ukraine - Ukraine Latest

BBC News: Reports the following from the crisis in the Crimea, " Ukraine officer 'killed in attack on Crimea base' ".

Lets Get Real:

It only takes a few shots to start a major War, as happened in 1914, at that time the Russians were on the right side, even if they flipped after the October Revolution of 1917 and made a deal with Germany.   These kind events increase the tension and further deaths could occur, the new Kiev Government is not going to rollover no matter what President Obama and the West might say behind closed doors.    They have to started to use the language of the 1930s, does the West want to appease Putin, even today British politicians do not want to be called appeasers, it was only of late that Neville Chamberlain gained a tea room in the House of Commons, and that was a fight.   Lets hope the Kiev Government has a tight lease on those troops loyal to the Kiev Government, the same goes for Moscow, otherwise we start to enter THE Cuban Missile Crisis case study, and Obama can not do any secret deals with Putin, those days are over, Obama has to act like a the only super power left, otherwise he will become a modern Jimmy Carter. 

The New Cold 2 - Ukraine Crisis

Telegraph: Reports the following Moscow reaction to the Western sanctions, " Russia risks new Cold War, Western leaders warn, as Putin prepares to swallow Crimea ".

Lets Get Real:

It seems from the article that tomorrow is the start of the new cold war 2, Putin is to address the Russian Parliament tomorrow were it is expected he will formally take Crimea in to the Russian Federation.   Thus the West will have to increase its sanctions on Russia, otherwise they will look weak and will be seen as  following a policy of appeasing Putin, very much like the West did in the 1930s with Hitler.   The BIG question is will Putin stop at the Crimea, or does plan to take over the Eastern Ukraine, that is a open question, the West has to man up and make it clear to Moscow that there are some red lines that can not be crossed no matter the results for the West.   At the end of the day this is about freedom, if its ALL about money what is the point. 

Western Sanctions " WEAK " - Ukraine Crisis

Guardian: Reports the following reaction on the US/EU sanctions, " US rejects criticism of 'toothless' sanctions following Crimea referendum..Russia issues decree recognising Crimea as sovereign state as US and EU enact measures against 32 Russians and Ukrainians ".

Lets Get Real:

This blog is the first to be critical of President Obama and the EU, but at least lets see if these sanctions have any effect, if not then go for biting sanctions, its a signal  to Moscow that the West is in the game, if Russia formally takes over the Crimea then the West should consider tougher sanctions, if there is a threat to Eastern Ukraine then we have to at least make it clear that the East is a line that Russia can not cross, yes another red line, NATO should send a couple of thousand goodwill troops to the Western border of the Ukraine, and yes a few fighter planes and tanks.   If we have to punch lets make sure our fist is steel and snaps the claws of the Russian Bear. 

Putin on Crimea Vote - Ukraine Crisis Latest

BBC News: Reports the following, " Russian President Putin recognises Crimea as nation ".

Lets Get Real:

This is an interesting move by Putin, it allows him a get out clause, the Kremlin is wondering if the new sanctions have any effect on Putin' s supporters and it allows Moscow to go either way, if Putin thinks that the West will never impose tougher sanctions he can take Crimea, if on other hand more serious sanctions come that  effect him he might decide to allow Crimea to stay in limbo, part of Russia without being a formal part of Rusisia, interesting strategic move by Moscow. 

US Sanctions on Russia - Ukraine Crisis

The White House: Statement by President Obama on US sanctions on Russia for the Crisis in the Ukraine, " Today, I’m announcing a series of measures that will continue to increase the cost on Russia and on those responsible for what is happening in Ukraine.  First, as authorized by the executive order I signed two weeks ago, we are imposing sanctions on specific individuals responsible for undermining the sovereignty, territorial integrity and government of Ukraine.  We’re making it clear that there are consequences for their actions.

Second, I have signed a new executive order that expands the scope of our sanctions.  As an initial step, I’m authorizing sanctions on Russian officials -- entities operating in the arms sector in Russia and individuals who provide material support to senior officials of the Russian government.  And if Russia continues to interfere in Ukraine, we stand ready to impose further sanctions.

Third, we’re continuing our close consultations with our European partners, who today in Brussels moved ahead with their own sanctions against Russia.  Tonight, Vice President Biden departs for Europe, where he will meet with the leaders of our NATO allies -- Poland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.  And I’ll be traveling to Europe next week.  Our message will be clear.  As NATO allies, we have a solemn commitment to our collective defense, and we will uphold this commitment.

Fourth, we’ll continue to make clear to Russia that further provocations will achieve nothing except to further isolate Russia and diminish its place in the world.  The international community will continue to stand together to oppose any violations of Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity, and continued Russian military intervention in Ukraine will only deepen Russia’s diplomatic isolation and exact a greater toll on the Russian economy.

Going forward, we can calibrate our response based on whether Russia chooses to escalate or to de-escalate the situation.  Now, I believe there’s still a path to resolve this situation diplomatically in a way that addresses the interest of both Russia and Ukraine.  That includes Russia pulling its forces in Crimea back to their bases, supporting the deployment of additional international monitors in Ukraine, and engaging in dialogue with the Ukrainian government, which has indicated its openness to pursuing constitutional reform as they move forward towards elections this spring.

But throughout this process, we’re going to stand firm in our unwavering support for Ukraine.  As I told Prime Minister Yatsenyuk last week, the United States stands with the people of Ukraine and their right to determine their own destiny.  We’re going to keep working with Congress and our international partners to offer Ukraine the economic support that it needs to weather this crisis and to improve the daily lives of the Ukrainian people.

And as we go forward, we’ll continue to look at the range of ways we can help our Ukrainian friends achieve their universal rights and the security, prosperity and dignity that they deserve."

Lets Get Real:

This is at least is a start, these sanctions in combination with EU sanctions will hardly have Putin running to take his troops back from the Crimea but at least it shows that the Oval is starting to man up in his fight with Putin, slow hits first then if that does not work harder sanctions.   Lets see how Putin's rich friends react to these sanctions.  Welcome to a New Cold War 2.

US ON Crimea Vote - Ukraine Crisis Latest

The White House: Has released a Statement by the President Obama's Press Secretary, " The United States has steadfastly supported the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine since it declared its independence in 1991, and we reject the “referendum” that took place today in the Crimean region of Ukraine.  This referendum is contrary to Ukraine’s constitution, and the international community will not recognize the results of a poll administered under threats of violence and intimidation from a Russian military intervention that violates international law.

No decisions should be made about the future of Ukraine without the Ukrainian government.  Moreover, this vote was not necessary.  The Ukrainian government has made clear its willingness to discuss increased autonomy for Crimea, and the presidential elections planned for May 25 provide a legitimate opportunity for all Ukrainians to make their voices heard on the future of their country.

In addition, Ukraine, the United States, the EU, the OSCE, the UN, and others have called for Russia to allow international monitors into the Crimean peninsula to ensure that the rights of ethnic Russians in Ukraine are being upheld.  Russia has spurned those calls as well as outreach from the Ukrainian government and instead has escalated its military intervention into Crimea and initiated threatening military exercises on Ukraine’s eastern border.

Russia’s actions are dangerous and destabilizing.  The UN Security Council recognized this in a vote yesterday that only Russia opposed.  As the United States and our allies have made clear, military intervention and violation of international law will bring increasing costs for Russia – not only due to measures imposed by the United States and our allies but also as a direct result of Russia’s own destabilizing actions.

In this century, we are long past the days when the international community will stand quietly by while one country forcibly seizes the territory of another.  We call on all members of the international community to continue to condemn such actions, to take concrete steps to impose costs, and to stand together in support of the Ukrainian people and Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. ".

Lets Get Real:

As the Russian Bear said to the American Eagle , " Are you tough enough, will you take me on, lets see your claws, or are you full of hot air ".  That is the question that Moscow will be asking, and the Oval better man up, no more Mr Nice Guy, time to be a Super Power. 

Is Crimea NOW part of Russia ? - Ukraine Crisis Latest

Telegraph: Reports the following from the Crimea, " landslide victory for Russia in Crimea vote

Rising tensions in Ukraine as Russia claims victory in Crimea referendum ".

Lets Get Real:

Thus what next for President Putin, the West will impose sanctions, what does Putin do, scale back the gas that Russia sends to Europe, withdraw from some of the nuclear treaties it has signed under the old USSR and modern Russia.   The game is afoot, and Putin has the cards at the moment, if he is smart he will take the Crimea and back off, he can keep the Kiev Government and the West off balance with trying to think what HIS next move will be without doing much, on the other hand he just might take over the whole of the Ukraine, showing up the West as weak and getting good press in Russia and some good write ups in Russian history books in Russia.   Interesting days ahead. 

Donetsk and Kharkiv - Ukraine Crisis Latest

Guardian - Ukraine Live: Reports the following in its 5.47pm post, " Pro-Russian crowds in Donetsk and Kharkiv have seized several buildings and begun burning Ukrainian-language books, Reuters reports ".

Lets Get Real:

The Kremlin in Moscow is working to a very subtle plan, it first needs the vote in the Crimea then it will  work to build up tensions in the East of the Ukraine, the problem for Moscow is that in the East the Russian population is not the majority ethnic population, thus Moscow will have to send in more people in to cause trouble.   This has risks, the West knows Moscow's plans and if Russians are caught causing problems then Russian loses the moral argument from their point of view to take action.   Putin might not care, he wants to bring back the Russian Empire of the old USSR and Tsarist Russia.   The West of the Ukraine will fight should Russia invade, the NATO countries one way or another might supply them, this could be Putin Afghanistan if he is not careful, Moscow has to remember that Western TV news will cover any invasion, Russia of today is not the old USSR or the Tsarist Empire. 

The Crimea Vote - Ukraine Crisis

BBC News - Ukraine Live: Reports in its 5.16pm post the following, " There is no carnival atmosphere in Kiev's Independence Square, which has now become a memorial site for those killed by snipers a month ago. People here are looking to see how strong the response to the referendum will be from Europe and the US. ".

Lets Get Real:

Russia can go either way, just take THE Crimea and keep the Kiev Government off balance or go for gold and take over the entire Ukraine, Putin it seems is not worried about Western sanctions, he thinks the West will back off after some time of shouting and sanctions, he could be right, of course that depends on his actions, if he invades the entire Ukraine the people of the West can be expected to fight, that will not be great pictures for the Kremlin, the Oval would have no choice but to go back to a Cold War mind set, Obama's foreign policy already weak would fall apart, as from his perspective he needs the help of Russia with Syria and Iran.  The next three years could be VERY frosty for the US and Russia. 

New Cold War 11 - US vs. Russia - Ukraine Latest

Telegraph: Reports the following on the London meeting between the US and Russia, " John Kerry and Sergei Lavrov reach no agreement on the Ukraine crisis, with the Russians saying they would respect an independence referendum in Crimea and the Americans vowing to impose sanctions if they do ".

Lets Get Real:

The Russian Bear has to be taught a lesson, the hard way is always the best with a bully, the West should place harsh sanctions on Putin's Russia, make the billionaires around Putin scream with pain with losing their money either by being blocked in Western markets or having their assets frozen.   The West should be ready to place Military personnel in Ukraine and around the border with Russia.  The Oval has to make it clear that ANY military action by Russia will face opposition from the US and its NATO allies.   The Crimea is lost, lets not lose the entire Ukraine.   Interesting days ahead for the Ukraine and the West. 

Kerry Depressed after Russian and US talks - Ukraine Latest

Guardian: Reports the following on the US/Russian meeting in London, " Kerry, looking tired and dejected, said he had put forward proposals from Barack Obama, but Lavrov replied that Vladimir Putin was not prepared to consider them until after the referendum. ".

Lets Get Real:

This blog noticed that Secretary Kerry looked down after the talks with the Russian Foreign Minister, it seems that even Kerry gets the fact that logic does not work with the Kremlin, they do not care what President Obama wants or says, they see him weak and easy to roll over, thus IF Obama wants any respect out of Moscow its time for him to find his inner Rocky, that means man up and DO SOMETHING that will get the attention of Moscow, send a thousand US troops on a good will mission to the border between the Ukraine and Russia, fully backed by NATO, to make sure that the Russian bear does not cross the line, anything else is just hot wind, this is the crossroads for POTUS, either be  a great leader or be another Carter, his call, lets hope he makes the right choice for the US and for Europe. 

NO Breakthrough in TALKS between Russia and the US - Ukraine Latest

BBC News: Reports on  the London meeting between the US Secretary of State John Kerry and the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to discuss the Ukraine Crisis, the article notes the following, " Russia and the US have "no common vision" on the crisis in Ukraine, Russia's foreign minister has said,.. ".

Lets Get Real: 

The Kremlin is not going to give up the Crimea, no way no chance, the problem is do they have an interest in the East of Ukraine, there have already been pro Moscow protests by protesters who want to join the Crimea and become part of Russia.    This could be a covert way for Moscow to keep its hands clean while either getting the East or keeping the Kiev Government off balance.    The West needs tough sanctions, sanctions that bite Putin on the backside and more hurts his rich friends.   This is not the time for President Obama to play nice, he has to toughen up, be POTUS, hold a big stick and not be afraid to use the power of the US. 

In the Oval, Obama and the Ukraine's PM

For the Historical record:

Russian THREATENS Ukraine ? - Ukraine Latest

Telegraph: Reports the following from Moscow, Russia, " Moscow says 8,500 troops are involved in practice for 'combat missions on unknown territory' ".

Lets Get Real:

Hardly the most subtle of threats from Moscow, the question that the West has to ask is the Crimea the only target, is Moscow also after the East of the Ukraine, at what point do the forces of the Ukraine fight back, if Russia invades then Ukraine has to fight, lets hope that the West supports the Ukraine, not with troops but with arms and supplies, if Russia was to be defeated in the Ukraine it would be the end of Putin in Russia, hardly a BAD thing for Russia and the West.  One can postulate that Putin is bluffing, he will take the Crimea and keep low level pressure on the rest of the Ukraine, if he is mad and goes for the whole of the Ukraine, ALL bets are off for the outcome. 

Russian THREAT to Eastern and Southern Ukraine - Ukraine Latest

BBC News: Reports the following from the Ukraine Government on the Russian threat, " warned on Wednesday of a "critical situation" on the country's eastern and southern borders...Russian 80,000 troops were now massing. ".

Lets Get Real:

This is the time for the Oval Office to bring the hammer down on Russia, it should state that any invasion of the Ukraine would be seen as a direct threat to the national security of the US, in other words if Russia moves it comes in to direct confrontation with the US.    The one thing that President Obama can not do is allow the Ukraine to be taken over by Russia, his Presidential legacy would go down the toilet, being the 1st African - President would not be enough, the Oval has to stand up to Putin, even at the risk of a new Cold War, Obama's polls are in the mid 40%, when the leader is unpopular he shows his leadership status by making the tough decisions, a security cover for Ukraine would not be popular with the left wing, but it would show Presidential leadership, time for Obama to make his choice, greatness or another Jimmy Carter. 

Russian Military ON the Ukraine and Russian Border - Ukraine Latest

Guardian: Reports the following on the Ukraine Crisis, " Russia announces start of military exercises near Ukrainian border...Move comes as Ukraine backs creation of new force to keep Russian troops from advancing beyond Crimea ".

Lets Get Real:

One can postulate that President Putin might be thinking, lets go for gold, the take over the whole of the Ukraine, this would be popular in Russia, it would make up for the breakup of the USSR and would place Putin in the history books as the President that bought back the old Russian Empire.   The question does Putin think that the West would not react to this move, the whole of the Ukraine in Russia would bring Russia close to Poland, a NATO country and the Baltic States, also NATO countries, could President Obama allow Putin to bring back the Russian Empire by force, that kind of thing does not go down well in history, just ask Chamberlain.   The Ukraine crisis has been has fallen off the lead in the news in  the past few days, lets see what happens after the Sunday vote for the Crimea to be come part of Russia, events could get out of control fast, who is bluffing, we shall see in the days ahead. 

The US Senate vs. The CIA Part 3 - 2nd Term Blues

Telegraph: Reports the following on the fight between the US Senate Intelligence Committee and the CIA, " Mr Obama ended the programme in 2009 but also ruled out prosecuting CIA agents or senior officials involved. ".

Lets Get Real: 

One has to wonder why this has come out now, its hardly in the interest of the US for the Bush 43 era methods to deal with the threat of terrorism to come out, as it hurts the US image, also with the Snowden leaks this does not help President Obama on the big stage, one can postulate that this is political, the Democrats want the base to come out in the 2014 Mid Terms, the extreme left hates the CIA and the US Government, this move by a Democrat would appeal to the liberal base, if it does nothing for the image of the US.    Also when it comes to the terrorism after 9/11 the US voter wanted tough action, not some liberal hand holding, they wanted President Bush to go after the terrorist threat, the Democrats do not want Republicans to argue that liberals and Democrats care more about the rights of terrorists than the people of the US.    In politics its about winning, if you make your opposition look anti American and weak and it sticks you can win, appealing to the base alone does not get your re-elected or hold the US Senate. 

US Senate vs. The CIA Part 2 - 2nd Term Blues

Guardian: Reports the following on the US Senate Intelligence Committee scandal, " The chairwoman of the Senate intelligence committee, Dianne Feinstein, on Tuesday accused the Central Intelligence Agency of a catalogue of cover-ups, intimidation and smears aimed at investigators probing its role in.........post-9/11 detention and interrogation. ".

Lets Get Real:

One suspects that the Oval will not be much help to the US Senate in this case, President Obama needs the CIA for his drone strikes, and once you start to release material on post 9/11 actions by Bush 43 and Obama they both could get hurt in the political realm,  one has to ask is water boarding as bad as being killed by unseen drone, and there have been reports that that innocent people have been killed in Obama's drone strikes, once you release the dirt on the Bush Administration the Republicans in the House will start to investigate the drone strikes, as the chain of command for drones goes to the Oval it would be hard for the Oval to blame Bush 43 as attack by drones has increased under President Obama.  In other words you keep the out house outside, if you start throwing mud you might get mud on the Oval in return.   That CIA needs Obama and Obama need the CIA, a US politician learns fast not to mess with the CIA. 

The US Senate vs. The CIA - 2nd Term Blues

BBC News: Reports the following from the US Capital, " Senate intelligence head says CIA 'searched computers' ".

Lets Get Real:

The US Senate Intelligence Committee was looking in to the actions of the Bush Administration when it came to a CIA detention and interrogation programme.  The CIA was right to check what the Senate staffers were getting up to, this blog would not trust Capital Hill to take its late beloved dog for a walk, the security of the United States can not be left to Congressional staffers, they are political, there concern is the next election, this goes for either Party in power and of course getting status on the Hill.   If this blog worked for opposition intelligence network it would target these staffers, few drinks or the wrong affair, or money and got eyes and ears on what the CIA is telling the White House and the Hill.   The allegation has been denied by the CIA, and there has been no secrets that have been compromised by Congressional staff to the knowledge of this blog, that does not mean it has not happened, this blog lives in the real World, no one can be trusted. 

Moscow Playing for time in Crimea - Ukraine Latest

The New York Times: Reports the following from the Ukraine, " Russia said Monday that it cannot accept the “fait accompli” of the new Western-backed government in Ukraine and was preparing diplomatic counterproposals.. ".

Lets Get Real:

The Kremlin is playing for time, its increasing its troops presence in the Crimea, its forces are trying to push Ukrainian troops out of their bases, its increasing pressure on the East of Ukraine, the Kremlin wants to build up a picture that the East Ukraine is under threat from the extreme right, thus move their extra troops from the Crimea up to the East, hell it could even be a full invasion, Moscow must be thinking if the West will only throw sanctions why not go for gold and take over the whole Ukraine, that would push Russia right up to Poland and the Baltic States.   Of course if that happened one can expect the Military forces of Ukraine to fight, the Oval would have to support them, it would mean start of a new Cold War.  Interesting days ahead for the Ukraine and the West. 

UK Sanctions on Russia - Ukraine Latest

Guardian: Reports on the Statement by PM David Cameron on the crisis in the Ukraine, " Details of sanctions against Russia to be finalised in London....David Cameron indicates asset freezes and travel bans will be imposed within days as tensions continue to escalate in Crimea ".

Lets Get Real:

Those rich and close to President Putin will have smelled the coffee, they did not get rich by being slow, they would  have moved their money off shore to areas not covered by the US or the EU.   The assets such as houses will be frozen but they should get them back when the crisis is over, and at some it will be over, so as to the sanctions, its far to late, the EU has to cut itself off from Russian gas, that would really hurt Russian and those rich Russians close to Putin, there should be talks about giving West Ukraine some security ties that would place it under NATO, that would force Putin to back off and fast, the Russian bear sometimes needs his claws clipped while his claws are in the honey. 

Protecting NATO Countries - Ukraine Latest

BBC News: Reports that, " Nato is to deploy reconnaissance planes in Poland and Romania to monitor the Ukrainian crisis. ".

Lets Get Real:

If the Obama Administration had sent US fighters to Poland and the Baltic States and the latest reconnaissance planes to Easter Europe before the Russians had taken over the Crimea this might have prevented the present crisis, at least the Oval has moved, it has showed its teeth, Putin one suspects would be worried about taking over Eastern Ukraine as this would force the Oval to increase its military presence in Eastern Europe to counter Putin and to keep his Republican critics off balance, the Countries of the former Warsaw Pact that are in NATO must at least be confident that should Putin go mad and try anything there the Oval would have no choice but to defend its allies.   Lets see what happens when the Crimea formally joins Russia, HOW will the West react to this latest development. 

The US and NATO - Ukraine Latest

Telegraph: Reports the following on US military moves to defend its NATO allies, " Ukraine crisis: US sends fighter jets to Baltic and increases pressure on Vladimir Putin..America will also deploy 12 F-16 fighters to Poland next week as part of a military training exercise expanded in response to the Russian incursion in Ukraine ".

Lets Get Real:

If the Oval had done this at the start it might have prevented Russia taking over the Crimea, at the least the Oval is being firm, the US is under Treaty obligation to defend its NATO allies, thus this show for force in the Baltic and Poland will show Moscow there are limits to how far it can go, what if there are pro Russian protests in the Baltic States and Putin losses the plot and takes action to protect Russians in these States, that kind of Crisis would make the Ukraine look like a tea party for the OVAL, so it a clear message to the Russian bear, this and no further and keep your claws to yourself or else. 

Obama HELPS Dems in 2014 Mid Terms - 2nd Term Blues

Guardian: Reports on the latest delay in ObamaCare, the article notes the following, " Obama announces further two-year reprieve for old health insurance plans..Decision to grant extension helps defuse a political problem for Democrats in tough re-election battles this fall ".

Lets Get Real:

Your head would spin if your tried to go through ALL the delays in ObamaCare, the latest means that those insurance plans that were meant to be outlawed by ObamaCare have two more years, well in to 2016 Presidential Election, the Democratic Nominee is really going to thank President Obama for that, the article notes that this delay finishes one moth before the 2016 Presidential election, one can see the Democrats demanding not requesting that the Oval in 2016 extend the delay again well past the 2016 and 2018 Mid Term Elections.    Those Democrats in red States, as in Conservative States should feel somewhat happy for this round of elections, but the political damage to the Democrats done by ObamaCare is vast, at some point a leading Democrat will call for or will enact law to remove ObamaCare, its just to much for the Democrats.    The left wing of the Democratic Party might be happy but they do no get you Oval.