The EU has imposed asset freezes and visa bans on 21 Russian and Crimean officials, with potential expansion to include close Putin associates. Chancellor Angela Merkel stated that economic sanctions could be introduced if the situation escalates. The U.S. and EU are responding to Russia's military actions in Crimea and Ukraine, with U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel discussing troop intentions with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. President Obama emphasized NATO commitments and urged Congress to finalize an aid package for Ukraine.
doj/DataSet10/EFTA01453398.pdf
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