The United States ramped up its pressure on Russia on Thursday as President Obama signed an executive order that allows for sanctions and expands visa bans.

The news comes as relations between Washington and Moscow continue to be strained in what has become one the most tense time periods for the two sides since the Cold War.

Obama has repeatedly called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to slow down with the increasingly invasive action in the Ukraine, but the Russian leader has not responded to him.

In a note to Congress, Obama explained his actions and said "the order does not target the country of Ukraine, but rather is aimed at persons -- including persons who have asserted governmental authority in the Crimean region without the authorization of the government of Ukraine - who undermine democratic processes and institutions in Ukraine."

The United States has already cut off trade talks with Moscow and now Europe is following suit. According to CNN, the European Council has said it would be suspending visa talks and issuing travel bans. The United States has also been in talks with Russia about what to do in the situation.

According to White House Spokesperson Jay Carney, the Obama administration "is pursuing and reviewing a wide range of options in response to Russia's ongoing violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity."

Carney also said that the sanctions are being aimed at "those who are most directly involved in destabilizing Ukraine, including the military intervention in Crimea, and does not preclude further steps should the situation deteriorate,"

The crisis in the Ukraine comes just after the spotlight was shining on Russia during the Winter Olympics. As connected as the world seemed to be at the Olympics, it doesn't quite seem that way anymore.

What do you think about the situation in the Ukraine? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.