KYIV, Ukraine — Russia has launched its long-expected invasion of Ukraine, and the effects could have impacts here in the United States.
Overnight, Russian forces launched an attack on Ukraine from the north, east and south.
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A Ukrainian government advisor told the Associated Press Thursday that “our army is fighting back inflicting significant losses to the enemy.” He said that there have been civilian casualties, but didn’t give details.
Another adviser to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia has targeted air bases and various other military infrastructure.
Although President Joe Biden has firmly ruled out the use of U.S. forces in the conflict, America and its allies have a toolbox of responses to put pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Biden is expected to address the nation early Thursday afternoon, although a specific time has not been announced. He expected to announce more sanctions and a united response from U.S. and its allies.
Americans could see a variety of impacts, particularly to their pocketbooks.
Pre-market trading on U.S. stock exchanges show a steep drop, and gas prices, already high, are expected to rise as world energy markets get thrown into disarray.
U.S. officials also are worried about Russian cyber attack capabilities.
The U.S. energy grid and banking systems are possible targets.
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