Ukraine invasion: PM brands Putin’s attack ‘heinous and barbaric’ and ‘must end in failure’

The Prime Minister said Putin's attack 'must end in failure'

Boris Johnson has promised a "massive package of economic sanctions" against Russia after President Vladimir Putin "unleashed" an attack on Ukraine early Thursday that he branded as "heinous and barbaric".

Johnson says he spoke to President Zelensky of Ukraine to offer the support of the UK shortly after 4am after our "worst fears have come true" and warnings proved "tragically accurate".

In a televised speech at midday Thursday, the PM said Putin has attacked a friendly country without any provocation or credible excuse, saying: "A vast invasion is underway by land by air and by sea."

"This is not some faraway country of which we know little," Johnson said adding that the UK "cannot allow that freedom to be snuffed out. We cannot and will not look away."

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Johnson said Putin had brought a "tidal waves of violence" to Ukraine in a "hideous and barbaric" venture that "must end in failure".

He said the UK was one of the first countries in Europe to send defensive weapons to help Ukraine, and pledged to do more in the days ahead.

"Today in concert with our allies we will agree a massive package of economic sanctions designed in time to hobble the Russian economy," Johnson said, added that Europe must collectively stop relying on oil and gas which is added Putin's footing.

Directly addressing Russians, Johnson said he can't believe this is being done "in your name" or believe that Russia want a "pariah status" for their country.

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Addressing Ukrainians Johnson said: "We’re with you, we’re praying for you and your families."

He said he knows the flame of freedom will "blaze bright again" in Ukraine. "I don’t believe the Russian dictator will subdue the national feeling of Ukranians".

"It’s an attack on democracy throughout the world," Johnson said.

Speaking about any potential repercussions for the UK, Johnson pledged to do "everything to keep our country safe".

Related Links

• Ukraine invasion: Everything we know so far and what it means for the UK
• Ukraine's Twitter compares Putin to Hitler after Russia launch full-scale invasion
• Putin says West will face 'consequences never encountered in your history' in chilling warning
• Trump calls Putin 'savvy' and 'genius' as escalations on Russia-Ukraine border rise