Reactions to attack: "A terrible day for Ukraine and a dark day for Europe"

Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD)

and

have sharply condemned the Russian attack on Ukraine.

Scholz spoke on Thursday morning in Berlin of a "blatant breach of international law".

Von der Leyen said that in these dark hours, thoughts are with Ukraine and the innocent women, men and children who fear for their lives.

Scholz said there was no justification for Russian President Vladimir Putin's "reckless act".

"This is a terrible day for Ukraine and a dark day for Europe," he said.

Germany's solidarity was shared with Ukraine and its people.

"Russia must stop this military action immediately," said the Chancellor, adding: "We will coordinate closely today within the framework of the G7, NATO and the EU."

Von der Leyen tweeted that Russia must withdraw its military and respect Ukraine's territorial integrity.

The EU will quickly decide on further measures against Russia.

"The EU stands with Ukraine," she wrote.

also

sharply condemned the Russian military operation against Ukraine.

“By attacking Ukraine, Russia is breaking with the most elementary rules of the international order.

The world community will not forget Russia on this day of shame,” said the Green politician in a first reaction on Thursday.

Germany will react together with partners.

"All our solidarity goes to Ukraine," wrote Baerbock.

Federal Finance Minister Christian Lindner

has meanwhile announced a harsh reaction from the West against Russia.

The attack on Ukraine was "a nightmare," tweeted the FDP politician.

"Putin exposed himself as a liar." Together with the partners from the EU, NATO and G7, they show solidarity with Ukraine.

"The Kremlin will experience tough #sanctions," writes Lindner.

Federal Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht

calls on Russian President Vladimir Putin to withdraw troops.

"I appeal to President Putin: Withdraw your troops immediately," Lambrecht said.

"We stretched out our hand to Russia for negotiations and he refused it." But it is never too late for dialogue.

"Nevertheless, Moscow should not be mistaken: NATO and the EU stand together and we stand up for each other," said Lambrecht.

"Right now, of course, this is especially true for our allies on the eastern flank of the alliance, who can count on our full support."

US President Joe Biden

announced a "joint and decisive response to the unjustified attack by the Russian military".

"President Putin has chosen a premeditated war that will bring catastrophic human casualties and suffering," he said.

British Prime

says he is "appalled at the terrible events in Ukraine".

He spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about the next steps, he writes on Twitter.

"President Putin has chosen the path of bloodshed and destruction."