'I say to the Ukrainians in this moment of agony, we are with you': Boris Johnson addresses nation as Russia invades Ukraine
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The Prime Minister said Vladimir Putin had "chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction".
The meeting of the Cobra emergency committee follows a call between Mr Johnson and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky during the night as Russia launched its assault.
"I am appalled by the horrific events in Ukraine and I have spoken to President Zelensky to discuss next steps," he said.
"The UK and our allies will respond decisively."
Live updates: Boris Johnson to address nation as Russia invades Ukraine
Key Events
Leeds MPs react
A number of Leeds MPs including Leeds central MP Hilary Benn and Leeds North East MP Fabian Hamilton took to Twitter this morning to call for immediate government action.
Live feed from Kiev
Link to a live feed from Kiev, keeping you live and up-to-date with all the latest following Russia’s invasion overnight.
UK suspends all flights to Ukraine
PA Media are reporting that all flights between the UK and Ukraine have been suspended.
“Ukraine closed its airspace in the early hours of Thursday morning after Russia launched a major military assault.” PA said.
“The UK Foreign Office updated its travel advice to warn that British nationals in Ukraine ‘should not expect increased consular support or help with evacuating.’”
Prime Minister promises sanctions
Boris Johnson has promised to respond “decisively” to the Russian attack - having previously had his initial package of sanctions criticised by senior Tories and opposition leaders.
Russian ambassador summoned to explain attack
Liz Truss, the foreign secretary, has tweeted confirming that the Russian ambassador has been summoned to explain Russia ‘unprovoked attack’ on Ukraine.