The British Foreign Secretary called the diplomat to underline the UK’s concern with Russia for invading a European democracy.

Overnight, Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a major land, sea, and air assault on Ukraine, the worst strike by one state against another in Europe since World War Two.

As rockets were launched in a number of cities around the country, multiple casualties were recorded.

Western officials have warned Russia against attacking, threatening severe economic repercussions if an attack was launched.

Ms. Truss slammed the Russian ambassador this afternoon, saying Russia had lost all credibility on the international stage.

She then abruptly ended the discussion, asking the diplomat to leave the building.

A Foreign Office source said: “It was a heated meeting.

“Liz Truss kicked him out early.

“Said he should be ashamed of himself, that Russia has lied repeatedly and lost its last shred of credibility with the international community.”

The Foreign Secretary has vowed to defend Ukraine and “hold the Russian government to account.”

“We are urgently convening discussions with our allies and partners to co-ordinate our response. Together we will hold the Russian government to account,” she said.

“We have always been clear there would be massive consequences and a severe cost for any Russian military incursion into Ukraine.

“As a result of their actions, we will today launch an unprecedented package of further sanctions that we have developed with our international partners.

“We will continue to support the Ukrainian government in the face of this assault on their sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“The UK and the international community stand against this naked aggression and for freedom, democracy, and the sovereignty of nations around the world.

“We hold the people of Ukraine in our hearts and minds at this terrible moment in their nation’s history.”

In the face of Russia’s military offensive, Western allies are working together to project a united front.

The EU also called Russia’s ambassador to the EU today to demand an immediate cessation of Russia’s military actions in Ukraine.

In the meeting with the ambassador, the EU conveyed its “strongest condemnation of the unprovoked, unjustified invasion of Ukraine and the demand to cease military operations immediately, and unconditionally withdraw all forces and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine”, the EU’s diplomatic service EEAS said.

Later today, the US, EU, and UK are set to announce coordinated new sanctions.

Image Credit: Getty

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