Joseph Biden actually said...
We could have gone further, but I chose not to do so, to be -- I chose to be proportionate. The United States is not looking to kick off a cycle of escalation and conflict with Russia. We want a stable, predictable relationship. If Russia continues to interfere with our democracy, I'm prepared to take further actions to respond.
Context
President Biden discusses the sanctions against Russia and his approach to maintaining a stable relationship while being prepared to take further actions if necessary.
04/14/2021