'An invasion the likes of which Europe hasn't seen since the second world war'
The words of the Foreign Affairs Minister today in response to the Russian military assault launched on Ukraine overnight.
In a televised address President Vladimir Putin claimed his forces were going in to 'protect people' from the regime in Kiev.
Explosions have been heard from the Ukrainian capital - where warning sirens have also been ringing.
Minister Simon Coveney says the invasion appears to have been well planned and EU sanctions against Russia will be 'increased significantly'.
"Unfortunately, and I'm sad to have to say it, but diplomacy to this point has failed.
"Clearly Russia have been lying to us for quite some time and have been planning this invasion, because it's happening in a way that is highly organised through the last few hours.
"This is effectively an invasion the likes of which Europe hasn't seen since the Second World War."
