ST HELENS North MP Conor McGinn has called for a "very strong, robust and united response" to deal with the threat of Russian aggression in Ukraine.

For a number of weeks, Russia has been steadily increasing their military presence on the border of Ukraine, with many believing an invasion is imminent.

The crisis has unfolded due to Russian president Vladimir Putin feeling threatened by the expansion of NATO in Europe and the prospect of Ukraine joining the political organisation.

St Helens Star: Russian tanks on the Ukrainian border (Pic: Russian Defence Ministry Press Service via AP)Russian tanks on the Ukrainian border (Pic: Russian Defence Ministry Press Service via AP)

Although Russia claim their newly stationed troops are merely conducting military exercises, latest estimates suggests that there are between 169,000 and 190,000 Russian troops stationed along Ukraine's border.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that intelligence suggests Russia is planning "the biggest war in Europe since 1945", with plans to invade and encircle Ukrainian capital Kyiv.

Concerned about the unfolding situation in Eastern Europe, former Shadow Security Minister Conor McGinn has called for a united diplomatic response to prevent a devastating conflict.

St Helens Star: Conor McGinn MPConor McGinn MP (Image: Conor McGinn MP)

Conor McGinn MP said: “The situation in Ukraine is incredibly serious and we stand united in opposition to Russian belligerence and in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty.

“It is critical that the UK, in close partnership with our international allies, demonstrates a very strong, robust and united response to deal with the threat of Russian aggression, guided by the principles of deterrence and diplomacy.

“But alongside action abroad, proper action is also needed at home to tackle corruption and Russian influence. The Conservatives have not simply failed to challenge this - they have actually enabled it.”