(NewsNation Now) — The Biden administration has determined a Russian effort is underway to create a pretext for its troops to potentially further invade Ukraine, and Moscow has already pre-positioned operatives to conduct “a false-flag operation” in eastern Ukraine.

NewsNation reporter Kellie Meyer joins “On Balance” with a live report.

Also, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton joins the show to discuss Russia’s possible motives.

At least a dozen U.S. cities saw a record number of homicides last year and it’s happening in the heartland just as much as in big cities.

Murder rose 155% in Portland, Oregon, 104% in Louisville, Kentucky, 90% in Columbus, Ohio and 134% in Austin, Texas.

Jamie McBride of the Los Angeles Police Protective League joins “On Balance” to discuss the numbers.

More than 200 scientists penned a letter to Spotify urging the company to censor rein in host Joe Rogan. WGN Radio host Lisa Dent joins the show to discuss that, while Dr. Mike Saag breaks down the country’s state in the fight against COVID-19.

Jose Aristimuño, former deputy national press secretary for the DNC, joins the show to weigh in on President Biden’s sinking poll numbers.