World in solidarity with Ukraine following Russia invasion

World leaders on Thursday condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine, with Western capitals vowing to escalate sanctions against Moscow.

US President Joe Biden is among the leaders that have added their voice on the issue.

“The prayers of the entire world are with the people of Ukraine tonight as they suffer an unprovoked and unjustified attack,” Biden said adding that “Russia will be responsible for the death and destruction the attack will bring.”

“The world will hold Russia accountable,” he declared.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson called Putin a “dictator” facing massive sanctions for his attack on democracy and freedom in east Europe and around the world.

“I am appalled by the horrific events in Ukraine and I have spoken to President Zelensky to discuss next steps,” the PM said in a tweet

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed to Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop the attack “in the name of humanity.”

“Do not allow to start in Europe what could be the worst war since the beginning of the century,” Guterres said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Thursday, unleashing airstrikes and ordering ground troops across the border.

“I have decided to proceed with a special military operation,” Putin said in a televised address before dawn on Thursday.

According to Ukrainian authorities, the attacks have left dozens of people dead.