The G7 countries will support Kiev as long as it takes

Ukraine

Leaders of the G7 group of rich countries have said they will support Ukraine for “as long as it takes” in the wake of Monday’s major Russian attacks.

The group, which met for emergency virtual talks, said it would continue to provide military and humanitarian aid.

NATO also said it will stand with Ukraine as long as necessary.

At least 19 people were killed and dozens injured after Russian missiles hit regions across Ukraine, including central Kiev. Attacks continued on Tuesday, with civilians advised to stay in air raid shelters.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said the attacks were in retaliation for a strike on a key bridge linking Russia with occupied Crimea, which he blamed on Ukraine.

In its statement, the G7 said it was “deeply concerned” by the attacks and welcomed further investigation into their cause.

The G7 consists of the seven largest “advanced” economies. It includes Canada, France, Italy, Germany, Japan, Great Britain and the USA.

China is not included as it is not considered an advanced economy in the way that other countries are. Russia was part of the group but was expelled after annexing Crimea in 2014.