Ukraine is to impose a state of emergency throughout the country and has urged its citizens to leave Russia, while Moscow has began evacuating its Kiev embassy in the latest ominous signs for those who fear a Russian military onslaught.
Shelling has intensified in eastern Ukraine and diplomatic avenues out of the crisis seem to be closing down.
Australia has also joined its western security allies with swees ping economic sanctions against Russia.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Russia is "behaving like thugs and bullies".
On Wednesday Russia's ambassador to New Zealand was called in to hear the country's strong opposition to its actions in recent days around the Ukraine.
New Zealand's foreign minister Nanaia Mahuta told Morning Report the Russian ambassador's expressed concern about New Zealand's position.
