Russian leaders have been hit with a wave of sanctions from the US and other countries for their actions in and around Ukraine. They promised on Wednesday to deliver a "strong response." They did not provide any details.

Foreign Ministry officials released a statement, criticizing US leaders for thinking they can impose their "rules of world order on everyone." They wrote that US foreign policy has no other means but "blackmail, intimidation, and threats."

President Vladimir Putin delivered his response in a video address. He said Russia is always open to a "direct and honest dialogue, and ready to search for diplomatic solutions." But he said the security of Russians is "unconditional."

Russian officials also announced the evacuation of their diplomatic missions in Ukraine. They have already pulled down their flags from their embassy in the capital, Kyiv.