'A grim day for Europe': Global leaders denounce Russia's attack on Ukraine.

• Russia's attack on Ukraine was strongly condemned by world leaders, including President Vladimir Putin, who ordered the attack early Thursday local time.
• U.S. President Joe Biden: “The world will hold Russia accountable.”
• Dmytro Kuleba, the Ukrainian Foreign Minister, stated that the attack on the world order was unacceptable.
• German Chancellor Olaf Scholz: “Dark day for Europe.”

After President Vladimir Putin declared the start of a military operation in Ukraine, world leaders condemned Russia's invasion.

Criticism of the Kremlin for the attack came from leaders of the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom, among others, within hours.

The following are their remarks and statements.

U.S. President Joe Biden: “The world will hold Russia accountable.”

The people of Ukraine are being attacked by Russian military forces, and the prayers of the entire world are with them tonight.

Russia is solely responsible for the catastrophic loss of life and human suffering that will result from President Putin's premeditated war. The United States and its Allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive manner.

The world will hold Russia accountable.

Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, expressed his dismay over the heinous occurrences taking place in Ukraine.

The unprovoked attack on Ukraine by President Putin has led to horrific events, and I have spoken to President Zelenskyy to discuss next steps. The UK and our allies will respond decisively.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz: “Dark day for Europe.”

The Russian attack on Ukraine is a clear violation of international law and has no justification. Germany strongly condemns this irresponsible act by President Putin and stands in solidarity with Ukraine and its people.

Immediately, Russia must cease this military action. In the G7, Nato, and the EU, we will closely coordinate our efforts. This is a tragic day for Ukraine and a dark day for Europe.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg: “Grave breach of international law”

I strongly condemn Russia's unprovoked attack on Ukraine, which endangers the lives of innocent civilians. Despite our repeated warnings and diplomatic efforts, Russia has chosen to engage in aggression against a sovereign and independent country.

The Russian military action is a serious violation of international law and a threat to Euro-Atlantic security. I urge Russia to stop its military actions and respect Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. NATO Allies will gather to discuss the consequences of Russia's aggressive actions. We stand with the people of Ukraine during this difficult time. NATO will take all necessary steps to safeguard and defend its Allies.

Canada's Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, stated that Russia's actions will not be tolerated and will result in consequences.

Russia should stop all hostile actions against Ukraine and withdraw its military and proxy forces from the country. Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected, and the Ukrainian people should be allowed to decide their own future.

Russia’s actions will be met with severe consequences. ...

Canada will increase its efforts to stop Russia's aggression against Ukraine, as we remain committed to supporting the Ukrainian people and community in Canada. Russia's actions will not be tolerated.

Dmytro Kuleba, the Ukrainian Foreign Minister, stated that an attack on the world order would be detrimental.

Currently, intense battles are taking place, and as I mentioned earlier, we will be battling for our nation.

The US and the West must urgently impose severe penalties, including disconnecting Russia from the SWIFT system, in response to its actions.

We require greater access to heavy weaponry and financial support. Our call for Russia's strict isolation is a threat to global order.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi: “An attack on democracy”

An attack on Ukraine is an attack on democracy. I commend @POTUS for his strong leadership in imposing the first round of swift and severe sanctions to counter Russian aggression. The U.S. and our allies remain united in our unwavering support for the Ukrainian people.

The European Council and European Commission issued a joint statement, urging Russia to stop the fighting immediately.

Russia's unprovoked and unjustified military actions against Ukraine are strongly condemned. This unprecedented aggression grossly violates international law and undermines European and global security and stability. We deeply regret the loss of life and the human suffering caused by these actions.

The EU strongly condemns Russia's actions in Ukraine and calls on it to immediately cease hostilities, withdraw its military, and respect Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence. Such use of force and coercion is unacceptable in the 21st century.

An extraordinary meeting of the European Council has been called by President Michel of the European Council to discuss the crisis and impose further restrictive measures on Russia for its actions. The consequences of these measures will be massive and severe.

The EU will persist in offering robust political, financial, and humanitarian support to Ukraine and its population.