A spokesperson for the US State Department said on Thursday that Russia's actions against the US Deputy Ambassador (who was expelled on Thursday) was "unprovoked" and marked an "escalatory step". The US is considering a response, the spokesperson added. 

Market Reaction

Markets remain in a defensive mood as they assess the growing likelihood of further military escalation between pro-Russia/Ukrainian forces in Eastern Ukraine and the prospect for further deterioration in Russia/NATO relations. The S&P 500 opened Thursday trade sharply in the red and are back below 4450, down about 0.8% on the day.