Senior EU officials have publicly denounced Russia’s attack on Ukraine, hours after President Vladimir Putin ordered troops into Ukraine. They also promised “massive consequences” for Moscow.
President Charles Michel of the European Council and President Ursula von der Leyen of the European Commission released a statement on Thursday, writing: “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.”
The officials called on Moscow to immediately cease its military operations, adding, “Such use of force and coercion has no place in the 21st century.”
They also promised financial and humanitarian assistance for Ukraine, and said that the EU would impose “massive and severe consequences on Russia for its action,” including new economic sanctions.