America Did Not Say Russia Could Invade Ukraine in 24 to 48 Hours
The Claim
According to American officials, Russia may invade Ukraine within the next 24 to 48 hours.
Emerging story
Social media users are spreading rumors that American authorities, specifically Jake Sullivan, the US national security advisor, stated that Russia could invade Ukraine within the next 24 to 48 hours. Some users chastised President Joe Biden for how he handled the situation. Verified accounts also shared the claim.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar investigated the claim and discovered it to be misleading. A thorough search of credible news sources revealed that no one stated Russia would invade Ukraine within the next 24 to 48 hours. Sullivan did, however, hold a press conference in which he urged Americans to evacuate Ukraine within the next 24 to 48 hours, citing the threat of a Russian invasion, as seen in the tweet below. This is most likely how the claim first came to light.
Sullivan stated that he could not "predict the future," but that "the risk is now high enough, and the threat is now immediate enough, that this is what prudence requires." He also stated that any Americans who remain assume the risk and that there will be no guarantee of another opportunity to leave Ukraine because no troops will be sent to evacuate American citizens who are trapped.
Tensions between Russia and Ukraine are high, and despite Moscow's repeated denials of any plans to invade Ukraine, there have been signs of escalation on the ground. According to satellite imagery, Russia has amassed over 100,000 troops on three sides of Ukraine. However, based on the findings, the claim is deceptive because the 24 to 48-hour time frame was for Americans in Ukraine to evacuate, not for an invasion to occur.
