Screenshot from ABC News YouTube
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has condemned the “unjustified” and “unprovoked” actions of Russia, as its soldiers launched a full-scale invasion of Eastern Ukraine.
Mr. Morrison called the Russian Government “thugs” and “bullies” for what they’ve done. He said, “they should be called out as thugs and bullies.”
Explosions were heard in Kyiv, the capital city of Ukraine, shortly after Mr. Putin’s announcement of war was made and Bombing is also being reported in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city which is about six hours east of Kyiv as per Sky News.
Mr. Morrison said the Australian Government will be taking action to penalise Russia for its unprovoked actions, so they are imposing a number of sanctions against Russia.
“We must ensure there is a cost for this violent, unacceptable, and egregious behaviour,” he said.
Mr. Morrison also said the financial sanctions were going to go further than the government having stopped Australians doing business with five Russian banks yesterday.
“We are now moving to place restrictions on Australians investing in a further four financial institutions,” he announced.
“There will be further waves of sanctions as we identify those responsible for these egregious acts.”
He further said that the sanctions would be extended to another 25 Russian individuals.
