"The decision of the Russian Federation to recognize terrorist groups operating in the temporarily occupied territories of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions is another manifestation of aggression against Ukraine and requires immediate response from our partners, including imposition of tough sanctions," said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

"This is a new act of aggression against Ukraine, which requires an immediate and decisive response from international partners and international community. We believe that this decision of the Russian Federation creates a legal basis for further armed aggression against the state of Ukraine," Zelensky said.

He said that Russia's actions are an unprecedented threat not only to Ukraine, but also to Europe and the whole world.

"Russia's escalation around Ukraine is an unprecedented challenge for Europe and the whole world," Zelensky said.

He called on Europe and the world not to repeat the tragic mistakes made in Georgia in 2008.

"We have agreed that due to another act of aggression against Ukraine, it is necessary to impose sanctions immediately. These sanctions should include the complete suspension of the Nord Stream 2. Besides, today, as never before, Ukraine needs the support of its partners in terms of defense capabilities as well as economic support and stability," Zelensky said.