Vice President Joe Biden on Friday assailed Russia’s continued attacks in Ukraine, singling out Kremlin special operations forces dressed in unmarked green uniforms and portrayed by Russian President Vladimir Putin as local militia, not invading troops.
In Brussels to talk up relations with the European Union, Biden said the troops are Russians and continue to spread into Ukraine.
“Ukraine is fighting for its very survival right now,” said the vice president. “Russia continues to escalate the conflict by sending mercenaries and tanks and as we euphemistically say in the United States, ‘Little Green Men’ without patches in, and very sophisticated special operation soldiers.”
He also accused Putin of trying to redraw the map of Europe and said the West has to stop Russia.
“This is a moment when the United States and Europe must stand together, stand firm. Russia cannot be allowed to redraw the map of Europe. That is exactly what they are doing,” said Biden at European Union headquarters in Brussels.
He said the U.S. will continue to offer financial assistance but didn’t mention military aid, which Ukraine has been demanding. Earlier this week, Ashton Carter, President Obama’s pick to be defense secretary, said he’d give weapons to Ukraine.
“We, the United States and Europe, have to stand with Ukraine at this moment. Ukraine needs our financial assistance and support as it pursues reforms. Even in the face of this military onslaught they are attempting to push forward with reforms,” said Biden, according to a pool report of his remarks.
Paul Bedard, the Washington Examiner’s “Washington Secrets” columnist, can be contacted at [email protected].
