Russia/Ukraine Crisis: Russia attack is one of “darkest hours for Europe since World War II”  – EU foreign policy chief

European Commission vice-president in charge of Foreign Policy Josep Borrell gives a joint press statement with Commission President on Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Brussels, Belgium, on February 24.

Russia’s attack on Ukraine Thursday ranked among the “darkest hours for Europe” in nearly 80 years, according to the European Union’s foreign policy chief.

“These are among the darkest hours for Europe since the end of World War II,” EU High Representative Josep Borrell told reporters.

Borrell promised “urgent assistance to Ukraine,” as well as supporting evacuation efforts, including of EU staff.

EU sanctions: Speaking alongside EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Borrell said punitive measures from the 27-member bloc against Russia would be “the harshest packet of sanctions that has ever been implemented.”

Von der Leyen said she will present “massive and strategic” sanctions against Russia for approval later today.