`` I 've repeatedly made it clear that Russia must halt the flow of weapons and fighters across the border into Ukraine , that Russia must urge separatists to release their hostages and support a cease-fire , that Russia needs to pursue internationally-mediated talks , and agree to meaningful monitors on the border , '' Obama said . Vladimir Putin says the sanctions are pushing Russia - U.S. relations into a stalemate . President Barack Obama says Russia failed to take steps to end Ukraine conflict . New sanctions target Russian banks , energy , defense firms , as well as Russia itself . The Pentagon says Russia has increased troops at Ukraine 's border .
Vladimir Putin says the sanctions are pushing Russia - U.S. relations into a stalemate . President Barack Obama says Russia failed to take steps to end Ukraine conflict . New sanctions target Russian banks , energy , defense firms , as well as Russia itself . The Pentagon says Russia has increased troops at Ukraine 's border .