Ukraine has demanded that Russia be immediately expelled from the Council of Europe, arguing that Moscow has no right to remain a member of the pan-European rights body after the invasion of its neighbour.

"We urge you to take a decision on the immediate expulsion of Russia from the Council of Europe," Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal told the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) in Strasbourg on Monday via video link, adding that Russia's attack meant it "cannot stay in the European family."

Russia’s military operation in Ukraine hit its 19th day on Monday, with counter accusations from both sides of war crimes taking place.

According to the United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, the number of refugees who have fled Ukraine since the Russian invasion began on February 24 has topped 2.8 million, making it the largest refugee exodus in Europe since World War II.