MP brands government ‘disgraceful’ for ‘shutting the door to Ukrainian refugees’

A Liberal Democrat MP has branded the government "disgraceful" for "shutting the door to Ukrainian refugees" amid the growing humanitarian crisis in the country.

Missiles pounded Ukrainian cities on Friday and overnight as Vladimir Putin's troops continued their assault, with citizens forced to hide in bomb shelters and subway stations, and thousands driven from their homes.

Armed forces minister James Heappey told MPs on Friday that 194 Ukrainians, including 57 civilians, are confirmed to have died.

The UK has consistently said it will offer aid to Kyiv, such as providing military equipment and humanitarian support.

However, the Independent reported on Friday that the UK has stopped accepting visa applications from Ukrainians stuck in the country.

It comes as the UN warns that the invasion could cause mass displacement, and force five million Ukrainians to flee abroad.

Layla Moran, Liberal Democrat MP, condemned the government's response, urging ministers not to turn their backs on Ukraine.

Read more: Putin started lying about Ukraine invasion two months ago, Russian President's ex-spokesman admits

"Disgraceful that the government is shutting the door to Ukrainian refugees as this human tragedy unfolds," she tweeted.

"The UK has a proud history of providing sanctuary to those fleeing war and persecution.

"We must not turn our backs on the Ukrainian people."

Reports suggest at least 100,000 people have fled their homes in Ukraine since Russia's invasion, with thousands crossing into neighbouring countries - including Moldova, Romania and Poland.

When asked whether the government were planning safe and legal routes for Ukrainians to travel to the UK, Number 10 spokesperson refused to outline any specific plans.

"I'm not going to be able to comment on any action," he said on Friday morning.

"But, as I say, we're working closely with Ukraine and its neighbours to support them and to support Ukrainians fleeing in the country."

Boris Johnson has responded with a package of sanctions against Russia that he described as the “largest and most severe” ever imposed by the UK.

The PM said the move would “hobble the Russian economy”.

Read more: Russian troops seize Chernobyl nuclear plant amid warnings over spread of radioactive waste

On Thursday, the Ukrainian government announced they had set up a crowdfunding website to pay for "logistical and medical support" amid calls from its president Volodymyr Zelenskyy for more assistance from the international community.

Moldovian president Maia Sandu on Thursday said the country was preparing to welcome thousands of Ukrainian refugees, posting pictures of refugee camps.

"First [Ukrainian] citizens arrive in [Moldova], with over 4000 crossings today," she tweeted.

"The govt has deployed temporary placement centers near Palanca and Ocnița.

"Our borders are open for [Ukrainian] citizens who need safe transit or stay."

Ursula von der Leyen, president of the EU Commission, said on Thursday the EU countries neighbouring Ukraine were working on plans to “welcome and host” Ukrainian civilians fleeing the war.

On Friday, the Ukrainian president accused The West of "watching from afar" as Ukraine was attacked.

"This morning we are defending our state alone," he said.

Read more: Britain could expel all Russian citizens from the UK, senior Conservative MP says

"Like yesterday, the world's most powerful forces are watching from afar. Did yesterday's sanctions convince Russia? We hear in our sky and see on our earth that this was not enough."

Watch: Boris Johnson: Putin a blood-stained aggressor ever intent on invasion