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UK government to sanction Russia over breakaway regions decision
The BBC reported, the UK government has said it will sanction Russia over President Vladimir Putin's decision to recognise two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine.
The BBC understands that recent legislation will be used to impose restrictions on people and organisations linked to Russia.
Government sources say sanctions would be "ratcheted up" in the event of a Russian incursion of Ukraine.
The foreign secretary said Russia's actions would not go "unpunished".
Liz Truss confirmed sanctions would be announced on Tuesday "in response to their breach of international law and attack on Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity".
Several of the UK's western allies, the US, France and the European Union, made similar statements, condemning Mr Putin's move and promising sanctions.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is chairing a Cobra emergency response meeting at 06:30 GMT on Tuesday.
The meeting is set to discuss sanctions and the latest intelligence with aides including the chief of staff as well as cabinet secretaries. Sanctions are expected to be presented in Parliament later.
A No 10 spokesman said the meeting would discuss the latest developments in Ukraine and co-ordinate the UK response, including agreeing a "significant package of sanctions to be introduced immediately".
An agreement gives Russia the right to build military bases in eastern Ukraine
Mr Johnson told Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday evening that he believed an invasion was a real possibility in the coming hours and days, a Downing Street spokesperson said.
In a phone call, the PM told Mr Zelensky he would "explore sending further defensive support to Ukraine" at the request of the country's government, as well as detailing sanctions.
The spokesperson added: "The leaders agreed that the West needed to support Ukraine in the event of an invasion, but should continue to pursue a diplomatic solution until the last possible second.
Boris Johnson: Damage caused by West's failure to support Ukraine could reach Taiwan
"Regardless of President Putin's actions, the UK would be steadfast in its full support of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, the prime minister said."
Source: BBC
