Economy 24 February 2022, 8:50am

EU to outline further sanctions on Russia for "military aggression" against Ukraine

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The news of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which started early this morning, was followed by a flurry of condemnatory statements from EU leaders on Twitter, all of which strongly condemned Russia's move and called for severe immediate sanctions. As an extraordinary EU summit has been called for 8 p.m. tonight in Brussels, the framework for much more harsher sanctions than the "first shot" will surely be decided at that event.

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Charles Michel, President of the European Council and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, have issued a joint statement on Russia's "unprecedented and unprovoked military aggression of Ukraine."

"We condemn in the strongest possible terms Russia's unprecedented military aggression against Ukraine. By its unprovoked and unjustified military actions, Russia is grossly violating international law and undermining European and global security and stability. We deplore the loss of life and the human suffering," they said.

They called on Russia to immediately cease the hostilities, withdraw its military from Ukraine and fully respect Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence.

Such use of force and coercion has no place in the 21st century. The EU stands firmly by Ukraine and its people as they face this unparalleled crisis.

The EU leaders will meet later today. Michel has urgently convened an extraordinary meeting of the European Council to discuss the crisis and further restrictive measures.

These will impose massive and severe consequences on Russia for its actions.

President von der Leyen and High Representative Borrell will outline a further sanctions package being finalised by the European Commission and the EEAS in close coordination with partners. The Council will adopt them swiftly.

The EU will continue to provide strong political, financial and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and its people, they closed the statement.

They have both tweeted their own condemnation of the Russian attack here and here.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholt also issued a strongly condemning statement on Twitter, saying "The Russian attack on Ukraine is a clear violation of international law. Nothing can justify it. Germany strongly condemns President Putin's reckless action. We stand in solidarity with Ukraine and its people. Russia must immediately stop this military action. Today we will work closely together within the G7, NATO and the EU. This is a terrible day for Ukraine and a dark day for Europe."

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawieczki has also slammed Moscow in a tweet:

"We must immediately respond to Russia's criminal aggression on Ukraine. Europe and the free world has to stop Putin. Today's European Council should approve fiercest possible sanctions. Our support for Ukraine must be real."

Cover photo: Thierry Monasse/Bloomberg via Getty Images