Senior United States lawmakers sent out a ‘message of solidarity’ to the people of Ukraine on Tuesday, in the backdrop of heightening tensions with Russia and the looming threat of an invasion.

Senators from both the major political parties said in a joint statement on Tuesday, “In this dark hour, we are sending a bipartisan message of solidarity and resolve to the people of Ukraine, and an equally clear warning to Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin”, according to news agency AFP.

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In a clear warning to Moscow, the political leaders wrote, “Should Vladimir Putin further escalate his ongoing assault on Ukraine’s sovereignty, Russia must be made to pay a severe price. We are prepared to fully support the immediate imposition of strong, robust, and effective sanctions on Russia, as well as tough restrictions and controls on exports to Russia, and we will urge our allies and partners in Europe and around the world to join us.” The statement was signed by majority leader Chuck Schumer and minority leader Mitch McConnell, among others – in an act of rare political unity in the Congress.

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The leaders, however, failed to reach an agreement on a bill sanctioning Russia if it were to invade Ukraine. While Republicans have asked for pre-emptive sanctions, Democrats have called for penalties only if and when Russia invades its neighbour, according to a Financial Times report.

The Senate’s statement alone does not carry the weight of law.

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Meanwhile, in what was seen as the first step towards de-escalation in tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow had said on Tuesday that it was pulling back some troops from he border after they had completed the drills. President Vladimir Putin had subsequently said that he welcomed a security conversation with the West.

United States President Joe Biden, however, remained wary, stating that the US had not independently validated Russia’s allegation and that an invasion was still possible.

As he pursues his demand for the West to suspend Ukraine’s bid to join NATO, Putin stated that he does not desire conflict and will rely on dialogue. 

In remarks at the White House, Biden promised that the U.S. would continue to give diplomacy “every chance” to prevent a Russian invasion, but he struck a skeptical tone about Moscow’s intentions. Biden also insisted that the U.S. and its allies would not to “sacrifice basic principles” respecting Ukraine sovereignty.

“Two paths are still open,” Biden said. “But let there be no doubt: If Russia commits this breach by invading Ukraine, responsible nations around the world will not hesitate to respond. If we do not stand for freedom where it is at risk today, we’ll surely pay a steeper price tomorrow.”