We're trying everything to avoid WWIII, acting U.S. ambassador to Ukraine says

Kristina Kvien
Acting United States ambassador Kristina Kvien, center, walks in Lviv, Ukraine, Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2022. The United States relocated the embassy from Kyiv to the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, citing a "dramatic acceleration" in the buildup of Russian forces at the country's border. (AP Photo/Mykola Tys, File)

As Russia continues its invasion of Ukraine, NATO forces are building in border countries in an effort to contain the conflict and prevent a wider war, according to the latest assessment from the acting U.S. ambassador to Ukraine.

“We’re trying everything we can to make sure it doesn’t lead to World War III,” Kristina Kvien told NPR on Monday. “But ultimately … that depends on the actions of President Putin.”

“We have sent extra troops to Poland and other NATO allies that border Ukraine to make sure that they have the security they need … If Russia takes one step, one inch into NATO territory, NATO will be prepared to respond.”