'Blood On His Hands:' Putin, Russia's Ukraine Invasion Condemned By MA Lawmakers

Massachusetts lawmakers are joining the chorus of those condemning Russia's overnight invasion of Ukraine, with politicians calling for Russian President Vladimir Putin to be held accountable for what they are calling an unprovoked act of war.

As of Thursday morning, there was no statement from Gov. Charlie Baker's office, but most of the congressional delegation had posted statements to Twitter.

Read: What To Know As Russia Attacks Ukraine

"Putin’s actions are the acts of a craven, insecure leader who deserves contempt from us all," Congressman Bill Keating, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee of Europe, Energy, the Environment, and Cyber, said. "And for those that think this is some war in a remote part of the world - make no mistake, this is an act of aggression and violence against all who value peace and democracy."

Congressman and veteran Seth Moulton also placed the blame squarely on Putin.

"The West tried to find a peaceful solution in Ukraine, but Vladimir Putin rejected diplomacy and chose war," Moulton said. "He is solely responsible for the unprovoked bloodshed in Ukraine. He will be held accountable before Russia's next act of aggression."

Congresswoman Lori Trahan said the impacts of the invasion will resonate for decades.

"Vladimir Putin and his enablers must pay a heavy price for their unjustified aggression," she said.

Congressman Stephen Lynch said, "Vladimir Putin will have blood on his hands for his war of choice against Ukraine. This is an unjustified, unprovoked attack against the free and sovereign nation of Ukraine and an affront to international peace and stability."

Sen. Ed Markey said the world is united against Putin.

"This is a fabricated conflict that could have a massive human toll, all spurred by the delusional aspirations of a weak dictator," he tweeted.

Congressman Richard Neal was among those calling for the United States to support Ukraine.

"The invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces is unjustified and unprovoked. Putin must be held responsible, and I condemn his deadly actions," he said. "We cannot and will not tolerate his authoritarian regime. Ukraine is a sovereign nation, and we must support them and their people.

Congresswoman Katherine Clark called the invasion illegal and callous.

"Accountability for Putin and peace for Ukraine must be our goal," she said.