Gov. Hogan Condemns 'Barbarous' Russian Invasion Of Ukraine

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Russia's invasion of Ukraine was a "barbarous military assault from a deranged autocrat," Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan said Thursday morning in a statement.

Russian troops are invading Ukraine from three sides, an attack that brought explosions before dawn to the country's capital, Kyiv, and other cities.

Ukraine's leadership said at least 40 people had been killed so far in what it called a "full-scale war" targeting the country from the east, north and south. It said Russia's intent was to destroy the state of Ukraine, a Western-looking democracy intent on moving out of Moscow's orbit.

Early Thursday morning, as news of the attack was reported, Hogan said, "It is an attack on the right of sovereign nations and free people to choose their own destiny — all that America stands for in the world.

“This unprovoked aggression demands a unified and resolute response from America and our allies. Putin and Russia must face devastating consequences," Hogan's statement said. "If we fail to stand for freedom, Europe and the world will be a much darker and more dangerous place."

Responding to the assault, Hogan also offered up words of faith as the conflict heightens.

“The First Lady and I join Marylanders and Americans today in praying for the people of Ukraine,” Hogan said.

Related: Russia-Ukraine: What To Know As Russia Attacks Ukraine

— The Associated Press contributed to this story.