Feb 23, 2022: According to a report by AFP, Australia announced sanctions on eight of President Vladimir Putin’s top security advisors on Wednesday following Russia’s “unwarranted, unprovoked, unacceptable” invasion of Ukraine.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has stated a Russian invasion of Ukraine has “effectively already begun” in a press conference on Wednesday. Morrison announced multiple sanctions on Russia targeting various industries, including oil gas and mineral reserves. Further financial sanctions and travel bans will also be imposed against eight Russian security council members.

Lambasting Putin’s decision to send troops to Kremlin-backed states in eastern Ukraine, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a set of sanctions that closely resembles those of other U.S allies including the EU and UK.

The Australian PM Morrison also said a full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine likely to begin in next 24 hours – calling it “unwarranted, unprovoked, unacceptable”

Russia’s eight members of the Security Council will face sanctions, including travel bans, and sanctions will target Russian military-linked banks. “They are behaving like thugs and bullies,” Morrison said. “A full-scale attack is likely in the next 24 hours.”

While condemning Russia for its move, Morrison also announced he would accelerate visa applications for some 430 Ukrainians looking to enter Australia.

Making clear his country’s stance on the latest move by Russia, Morrison said, “Australians will always stand up to bullies, and we will be standing up to Russia.”

Australia is a member of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing bloc, which includes the United States, Britain, Canada and New Zealand.

Stay tuned to BaaghiTV for latest news and Updates!