‘Flagrant violation!’ Boris rages at Vladimir Putin as Russia inches away from invasion

Johnson slams Putin’s ‘flagrant violation’ of Ukraine’s sovereignty

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Boris Johnson has fumed at the decision of Russian leader Vladimir Putin to recognise the independence of Ukraine’s pro-Kremlin separatist regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. The Prime Minister called the decision, which was announced by Mr Putin on Monday evening, a “flagrant violation” of Ukraine’s sovereignty. 

Mr Johnson told Monday evening’s Downing Street press conference: “Vladimir Putin has effectively announced that Russia is recognising the breakaway republics of Donetsk and Luhansk.

“This is plainly in breach of international law.

“It’s a violation of flagrant violation of the sovereignty and integrity of Ukraine.

“It is a repudiation of the Minsk process and the Minsk agreements and I think it’s a very ill omen and a very dark sign and it’s certainly an indication, yet another indication that things are moving in the wrong direction in Ukraine.”

Mr Johnson said he will talk with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensk on Monday and would offer Britain’s support.

When asked whether it was now time to impose sanctions on Russia, the Prime Minister said he would have to wait and see what happened in eastern Ukraine.

“What I have said before about the package of sanctions is that they will be triggered with the first toecap of a Russian incursion or Russian invasion. But plainly what has happened is extremely bad news,” he said.

“It is becoming clear that we’re going to need to start applying as much pressure as we possibly can because it is hard to see how this situation improves.”

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