RIGA, Feb 24 (LETA) - The Riga City Council plans to earmark EUR 0.5 million for assistance to Ukraine.

According to the draft decision for the extraordinary meeting of the Riga City Council, the local government plans to condemn Russia's aggression on Ukraine, voice solidarity with Ukraine's nation and unwavering support to Ukraine's freedom, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Riga plans to provide support to Ukraine and its residents who have suffered from Russia's military aggression by allocated up to EUR 500,000 from its reserve fund.

The Riga city executive director in cooperation with the Foreign Ministry will coordinate with the Ukrainian authorities the kind of assistance necessary and agree with the Cabinet of Ministers on the procedure for this support.

Riga Mayor Martins Stakis (For Development/Progressives) has convened an extraordinary meeting today to decide on support to Ukraine.

As reported, Russian President Vladimir Putin unexpectedly made an address on Russian TV channel Rossiya-24 on Thursday, announcing that Russia has started a "military operation" in Ukraine, calling on the Ukrainian army to "put down the weapons". 

Reportedly attacks were conducted from different directions, including from Crimea occupied by Russia in 2014. 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared war in Ukraine and announced the Ukraine breaks the diplomatic ties with Russia.

The EU, the US, the UK and other countries have threatened Russia with grave sanctions.