Shares of energy companies slipped as growing anticipation that Russia would take military action in Ukraine was offset by weakness in commodity prices.
Ukraine's foreign minister said President Biden's comments Wednesday playing down a potential "minor incursion" into his country by Russia could serve as an invitation to attack by Moscow.
Natural gas futures slid 5.7% to $3.80 a million British thermal units, the lowest closing price in more than two weeks after a surprisingly sharp buildup in U.S. stockpiles. Oil futures held near multiyear highs, trading at around $88 per barrel.
Write to Rob Curran at rob.curran@dowjones.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
01-20-22 1634ET
