we ve outlined a diplomatic path. we outlined steep consequences should russia go into aggression. we and our allies and partners are united across the board. it remains up to russia to decide how to respond. we are ready either way. with ukraine under growing threat for a russian invasion, the united states has been clear that while there is still a diplomatic path forward to ease tensions, russia should not test u.s. resolve to inflict severe consequences, and nato s resolve, to inflict severe consequences should they choose the wrong path. vladimir putin has an apparent need to show strength in a diminutive russia. he controlled media talking