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Russia-Ukraine conflict: World leaders react to conflict, Ukraine retake control of Kyiv airport
As Russia invaded Ukraine on Thursday, world leaders around the world have reacted to Russia’s actions. This invasion comes after Russia repeatedly refused during the past few weeks that it is not planning to invade Ukraine.
UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson said, “President Putin has chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction by launching this unprovoked attack on Ukraine. The UK and our allies will respond decisively.” Chancellor of Germany, Olaf Scholz said, “The Russian attack on Ukraine is a blatant violation of international law. There is no justification for it.”
As the world is looking at the conflict in shock, Ukraine’s government claimed on Thursday to have retaken an airport on the outskirts of Kyiv that Russian airborne troops had earlier seized. Ukraine's Armed Forces in an update at 8 pm local time (1 pm ET) said they believe more than 60 Russian battalion tactical groups – the equivalent of between 30,000 to 60,000 troops - have been deployed on Ukrainian territory.
President of France, Emmanuel Macron said, “Last night’s events are a turning point in the history of Europe and of our country. They will have lasting, profound consequences for our lives.”
Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau said, “Canada calls on Russia to immediately cease all hostile and provocative actions against Ukraine and withdraw all military and proxy forces from the country.”
President of Finland, Saudi Nilnistö said, “We feel deep compassion towards Ukraine and are seeking ways to increase our support to Ukraine.”
Prime Minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida said, “I condemn Russia and will work with the United States and other members of the international community to quickly deal with the situation.”