COUNCIL Leader Susan Hinchcliffe says Russia invading Ukraine is "deeply concerning" to everyone in the Bradford district.

Yesterday Russian forces launched a major military assault on Ukraine, with missile strikes and explosions near major cities.

Boris Johnson said Russian President Vladimir Putin had “chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction” and that the UK and its allies would respond “decisively”.

Meanwhile, Mr Putin warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to “consequences they have never seen”.

Cllr Hinchcliffe sends her sympathies to those affected in the district.

She said: “The events unfolding in Ukraine are deeply concerning to everyone in our district and we join in solidarity against this unprovoked aggression.

"We add our voice to those calling urgently for peace in the region.

"We understand that this is a moment of huge anxiety, especially for our Ukrainian community, many of whom will have family living there.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with them.”

Bradford West MP Naz Shah (Lab) believes the "hardest possible sanctions" should be imposed on Russia following the attack.

She said: "My thoughts and solidarity are with the Ukrainian people, and the large Ukrainian community in Bradford.

"We must stand with our allies and partners in condemning Putin's attack on Ukraine in the strongest possible terms, and we must maintain and strengthen our unity and resolve.

"The hardest possible sanctions must now be taken against all those linked to Putin and against the Russian government’s interests."

Tory MP Robbie Moore (Keighley) concurred and totally slammed the Russian President's actions.

He added: “Putin’s invasion on Ukraine is a horrific attack on all who cherish freedom, democracy, rule of law and sovereignty.

"My thoughts and prayers are with Ukraine at this time.

"In this country, we have Ukrainian friends, neighbours and family, and Russian aggression towards their country cannot stand. Hard line action must be taken now with strong & unified response.

"Yesterday the Prime Minister announced that in tandem with our allies, we will agree a massive package of economic sanctions to hobble the Russian economy.

"We must do absolutely everything in our diplomatic and political arsenal to ensure that the hideous actions of Vladimir Putin end in total failure.”

An emergency appeal for funds towards medical supplies and relief for the country has already raised over £100,000.