Russia's Attack On Ukraine: World Reacts

With Vladimir Putin ordering a 'special military operation' in eastern Ukraine after weeks of debates and talks of sanctions, World leaders have now condemned the actions of Russia.

Putin launched his attack on Thursday in what might be seen as a start of war in Europe.

Here is how the world is reacting to the unfortunate situation.

Ukraine

Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky made a brief national address to say that he was declaring martial law and that Ukraine would win.

In addition, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba was reported to have said that Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine and that peaceful cities were under strikes.

He said; “This is a war of aggression. Ukraine will defend itself and will win. The world can and must stop Putin. The time to act is now.”

United Nations

The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres condemned Russia’s actions, telling Putin to bring his troops back to Russia.

Antonio’s statement reads; “In the name of humanity, do not allow a war to start in Europe which could be worst war since the beginning of the century with consequences not only devastating for Ukraine, not only tragic for the Russian Federation but with an impact cannot even foresee.”

European Union

The chief of the EU’s Executive Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said the EU will hold Russia accountable for the attack on Ukraine. In a statement, the EU said its leaders will discuss a further sanctions package on Russia at an emergency meeting later in the day.

NATO

NATO said in a statement that; “Russia has chosen the path of aggression against a sovereign and independent country.”

“The attack “puts at risk countless civilian lives, and this is a grave breach of international law and a serious threat to Euro-Atlantic security.”

United States

The United States President, Joe Biden condemned Russia for an unjustified attack on Ukraine while promising that his country and its allies will hold Russia accountable.

He declared; “President Putin has chosen a premeditated war that will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering.”

“Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will bring, and the United States and its allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive way. The world will hold Russia accountable.”

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom Prime Minister, Boris Johnson said he was appalled by the event and said; “President Putin has chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction by launching this unprovoked attack on Ukraine.”

Germany

German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz condemned Russia’s attack on Ukraine saying; “This is a blatant breach of international law that cannot be justified by anything”.

France

The French President, Emmanuel Macron vowed that his country would work with allies to end the war. He said; “Russia must immediately put an end to its military operations.”

“France stands in solidarity with Ukraine. It stands by Ukrainians and is working with its partners and allies to end the war.”

The attack by Russia shows President Vladimir Putin casting aside international condemnation and sanctions, and warning other countries that any attempt to interfere would lead to "consequences you have never seen."