Prime Minister Boris Johnson today announced Vladimir Putin has 'unleashed war in Europe' after Russia began an invasion of Ukraine.
Mr Johnson delivered a grim assessment of the unfolding crisis in Eastern Europe, stating a 'vast invasion is now underway by land, sea and air.'
Speaking directly to the British people, he said: "Innumerable missiles and bombs have been raining down on an entirely innocent population.
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He added: "Our worst fears have come true and all our warnings have proved tragically accurate.
"President Putin of Russia has unleashed war in our European Continent - he has attacked a friendly country without any provocation."
Speaking about Ukraine, Mr Johnson said the UK would stand in support of the country that is now experiencing bombing from Russian forces.
He said: "This is not some far away country of which we know little, we have Ukrainian friends in this country, neighbours, co-workers.
"Ukraine is a country that for decades has enjoyed freedom and democracy and the right to choose its own destiny."
The Prime Minister suggested the UK and allies around the world would now move forward with a 'massive package of sanctions' against Russia.
He said: "We and the world cannot allow Ukraine's freedom to be snuffed out, we cannot and will not just look away."
He added: "Our mission is clear, diplomatically, economically and eventually militarily this hideous and barbaric venture of Vladimir Putin must end in failure".
Speaking directly to the people of Ukraine, he concluded: "I say to the people of Ukraine in this moment of agony, we are with you, we are praying with you and your families and we are on your side.
"If the months ahead are grim and the flame of freedom burns low, I know that it will blaze bright again in Ukraine, because for all his bombs and tanks and missiles, I don't believe the Russian dictator will ever subdue the passionate feeling of Ukrainians that their country should be free."
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