Ukrainian President Says Russia is Planning Coup Against Him

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that a group of Russians and Ukrainians are planning a coup attempt in Ukraine next month-with conspirators seeking help from the country's wealthiest man, Rinat Akhmetov. According to Ahmetov, he was not involved in the alleged coup program. 

However, he did not provide further details and was unable to answer many questions about the motivation to deny allegations and possible actions by the authorities. Ahmetov also owns the media and has increased criticism of Serensky and his government in recent weeks. Western and Ukrainian officials said they saw Russian troops rally at the  border with Ukraine.  

The reason for the accumulation is unknown, but Ukrainian officials say they are preparing for the invasion or escalation of a seven-year-old conflict with anti-Kiev in eastern Ukraine (supported by Moscow).

In Nantucket, Massachusetts, President Biden told reporters that he is likely to discuss rising tensions with Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He said there was always a risk of escalation and aggression from Russia, concerning the U.S, and neighboring countries.