Western nations including the EU and The G7 are to meet today to consider a response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
All commercial flights to Ukraine are now suspended including Ryanair.
The Russian President announced the action during a televised address saying the move was a response to threats from Ukraine.
It is understood there are now 64 Irish citizens in Ukraine, down from 145 last week.
The advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs to Irish citizens in Ukraine is to shelter in place and not move around.
Minister Simon Coveney has condemned Russia for what he calls and act of unjustifiable war in the heart of Europe.
Meanwhile the move caused a sharp increase in gas prices – Europe depends on Russia for more than a third of its gas supply.
Increased economic sanctions against Russia are likely to be announced following today’s meeting.
It remains to be seen if NATO will engage in any military action against Russia.
