Russia has launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with reports of more than 130 casualties since attacks began early Thursday morning. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared martial law as explosions rang out across a number of cities, including the capital Kyiv. Over 100,000 Ukrainians have fled the country, according to Al Jazeera.
Global leaders were quick to condemn Russia’s actions, which British Prime Minister Boris Johnson described as “hideous and barbaric.”
“I am appalled by the horrific events in Ukraine and I have spoken to President Zelenskyy to discuss next steps. 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,” Johnson tweeted on Thursday.
Meanwhile, thousands gathered in Russian cities to protest Putin’s crusade. Many of the country’s most prominent media personalities and public figures spoke out against the invasion as well. The Russian government arrested over 1,700 anti-war protestors by Thursday evening.
The U.S., European Union, and other Western allies are set to impose severe sanctions against Russia. The punitive measures will target banks, technology exports, and Russian elites, according to the Associated Press.
In addition, the governing body of European soccer, UEFA, plans to hold an emergency meeting Friday to announce that St. Petersburg, Russia, will no longer host the Champions League final on May 28.
“UEFA shares the international community’s significant concern for the security situation developing in Europe and strongly condemns the ongoing Russian military invasion in Ukraine,” UEFA said in a statement.
The event was originally scheduled to take place in a stadium funded by Russian energy corporation Gazprom.




