Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta is condemning Russia's military advance into neighbouring Ukraine with National calling on Labour to act fast to enact sanctions.

Bombing is being reported across Ukraine following President Vladimir Putin's announcement of a 'special military action” earlier today.

In a statement, Minister Mahuta says New Zealand condemns the advance of Russian military personnel and equipment into Ukraine.

'This represents a clear violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. We stand with the people of Ukraine impacted by this conflict. Our thoughts are with them,” says Mahuta.

'Russia's actions are a flagrant breach of fundamental international rules; the use of force to change borders is strictly prohibited under international law.

'We join the international community in calling on Russia to cease military operations in Ukraine, and immediately and permanently withdraw, to ensure all possible steps are taken to protect civilians in line with international humanitarian law, and return to diplomatic negotiations to de-escalate this conflict.”

National's Foreign Affairs spokesperson Gerry Brownlee has also condemned Putin's actions and says the Government must pass legislation allowing New Zealand to enact sanctions.

'There is no possible justification for the catastrophic damage to human life this will bring,” says Brownlee.

'This a threat to global peace and stability many have never seen their lifetime, and the time for twiddling thumbs and putting out statements is over.

'It is not too late for the New Zealand Government to pass legislation allowing our country to join in coordination with sanctions being used by our traditional partners to send a clear message to Russia and deter this violation of Ukraine's sovereignty.

'If they don't, this Government must explain why.”