Like many constituents, I have been horrified to watch the heart-breaking events unfolding in Ukraine.

The attack from Vladimir Putin’s Russia is unwarranted, unprovoked, unjustified and an egregious violation of international law. The events break multiple treaties and commitments, including the fundamental principles of the UN Charter.

We are already seeing the tragic consequences for the Ukrainian people. I stand firmly with the Ukrainian people against this attack, and it is right that the UK and our allies have condemned this invasion in the strongest possible terms. It should be utterly condemned by all nations.

The attack on Ukraine is an attack on democracy. All those who believe in the right to self-determination must support the Ukrainian people. Britain has a long tradition of standing up for the rule of law, freedom, and democracy, and we must stand in solidarity with Ukrainians now.

Britain, alongside our allies across the world, must impose the harshest possible sanctions against all those linked to the Russian government, including Belarus, and work in a coordinated and unified way to ensure the severest possible consequences.

In addition, we must provide urgent humanitarian assistance to support those fleeing or being forced to leave Ukraine, and work in a coordinated way with our allies and Ukraine’s neighbours to ensure their safety.

At home, we must see action from the Government to support people in Britain prepare for the consequences of extensive sanctions in energy and financial markets, working with allies and partners to manage disruptions and shocks. We must be prepared for cyber-attacks against the UK and to bolster the UK’s national resilience.

As we have seen, this act of aggression from Russia has been roundly condemned internationally, but also from within Russia by many courageous democracy activists, who risk being jailed or face action taken against them by the Russian Government. They are taking an incredibly brave stand against Putin’s actions.

My thoughts, and those of constituents across Newcastle North, remain firmly with the Ukrainian people at this horrendous time. I will continue to do everything that I can to support them, and their right to democracy and self-determination.