Boris Johnson promises sanctions to 'hobble the Russian economy'

Boris Johnson has promised a “massive package of economic sanctions” that will “hobble the Russian economy”.

In an address to the nation, the Prime Minister condemned Vladimir Putin’s “vast invasion” of Ukraine, saying “our worst fears have now come true and all our warnings have proved tragically accurate.”

The Russian President had, he said, “unleashed war in our European continent” and that the mission of the UK and allies was to make sure that “diplomatically, politically, economically – and eventually, militarily – this hideous and barbaric venture of Vladimir Putin must end in failure.”

Johnson said: “He has attacked a friendly country without any provocation and without any credible excuse. Innumerable missiles and bombs have been raining down on an entirely innocent population A vast invasion is underway by land by sea and by air.”

He added: “Today, in concert with our allies, we will agree a massive package of economic sanctions designed in time to hobble the Russian economy.

“And to that end, we must also collectively cease the dependence on Russian oil and gas that for too long has given Putin his grip on western politics.”

The Prime Minister is due to outline the extent of the new sanctions against Russia in the Commons this evening. 

In his pre-recorded TV statement, Johnson appealed directly to Russian citizens.

He said: “And so I say to the people of Russia, whose president has just authorised a tidal wave of violence against a fellow Slavic people, the parents of Russian soldiers who will lose their lives. I cannot believe this is being done in your name or that you really want the pariah status it will bring to the Putin regime.

“And I say to the Ukrainians - in this moment of agony we are with you we are praying for you and your families and we are on your side.

“And if the months ahead are grim, and the flame of freedom burns low, I know that it will blaze bright again in Ukraine because, for all his bombs and tanks and missiles, I don’t believe that the Russian dictator will ever subdue the national feeling of the Ukrainians and their passionate belief that their country should be free.

“And I say to the British people, and all who have heard the threats from Putin against those who stand with Ukraine, we will of course do everything to keep our country safe.”