Boris Johnson has accused Vladimir Putin of committing “a war crime” as he spoke during a session of PMQs preceded by a standing ovation for Ukraine’s ambassador.

Ahead of Wednesday’s PMQs, the entire Commons chamber stood to applaud Vadym Prystaiko as he sat in the gallery to observe proceedings.

Addressing Mr Prystaiko after MPs had ended their applause, Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle noted – to some laughter – that MPs “generally do not allow applause in the chamber”.

“But I think on this occasion the House quite rightly want to demonstrate our respect and support for your country and its people at this most difficult time,” Sir Lindsay added.

At the beginning of PMQs, Mr Johnson said Russian President Vladimir Putin had “gravely miscalculated” in his “abhorrent assault” on Ukraine.

“He has underestimated the extraordinary fortitude of the Ukrainian people and the unity and resolve of the free world in standing up to his barbarism,” the PM told the Commons.

Mr Johnson later directly accused Mr Putin’s regime of committing a war crime in Ukraine.

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“What we have seen already from Vladimir Putin’s regime – in the use of munitions they have already been dropping on innocent civilians – in my view already fully qualifies as a war crime,” he said.

“I know the IPC prosecutor is already investigating and I’m sure the whole House will support that.”

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