G7 Warns Russia Of ‘Massive Costs' If Ukraine Is Invaded

Foreign ministers from the G7 group of rich democracies yesterday warned Russia of "massive consequences” if it invades Ukraine and urged it to de-escalate the military build-up on its border.

- Patrick Wintour

A communique from their meeting in Liverpool said the group reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the right of any sovereign state to determine its own future” and praised Ukraine's restraint as tensions grow.

Any use of force to change borders is strictly prohibited under international law. Russia should be in no doubt that further military aggression against Ukraine would have massive consequences and severe cost in response,” the statement said, after a weekend meeting dominated by discussion of Russia's movement of weapons and troops to the border region.

The UK's foreign secretary, Liz Truss, said all forms of economic sanctions were on the table if Russia made an incursion into Ukraine and hinted she might look again at the UK's money-laundering laws. An invasion would come with a severe cost” for Russia, she said.