High Representative of the European Union for Foreign and Security Policy Josep Borrell, on behalf of the EU, issued a statement in which he called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to immediately stop hostilities against Ukraine.

"The European Union condemns in the strongest possible terms the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine by armed forces of the Russian Federation. We also condemn the involvement of Belarus in this aggression against Ukraine and call on it to abide by its international obligations," the EU High Representative said in the statement, the text of which was circulated in Brussels on Thursday.

"We demand President Putin to cease Russian military operations immediately and unconditionally withdraw all forces and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine. Russia bears full responsibility for this act of aggression and all the destruction and loss of life it will cause. It will be held accountable for its actions," according to the document.

The EU said the military attack against Ukraine – an independent and sovereign State – is a flagrant violation of international law and the core principles on which the international rules-based order is built. "The EU together with transatlantic and like-minded partners have been united in making unprecedented efforts to achieve a diplomatic solution to the security crisis caused by Russia. Russia has not reciprocated these efforts and instead opted unilaterally for a grave and premeditated escalation," Borrell said.

He said the EU response will include both sectoral and individual restrictive measures, fully coordinated with transatlantic partners and like-minded people.

"Russia should be in no doubt that the EU will remain resolutely united as it takes the next steps in close coordination with partners. The EU calls on the international community to demand from Russia the immediate end of this aggression, which endangers international peace and security at a global scale," Borrell said.

The EU also called on Russia to fully respect international humanitarian law, and to allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access and assistance to all persons in need. We also call on Russia to ensure the safety of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission.

"The EU reiterates its unwavering support and commitment to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. The EU reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the political association and economic integration of Ukraine with the European Union. We stand by the people of Ukraine and its democratically elected institutions and representatives. The EU also reiterates its unwavering support for, and commitment to, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia and of the Republic of Moldova," Borrell said.