Russian President Vladimir Putin announces a “military operation” in Ukraine and laid a stark warning to other EU countries.
‘If any country interferes with Russia’s operation in Ukraine – they will be destroyed’ Putin
Putin warns that Moscow’s response will be “instant” if anyone tries to take on Russia.
Ukraine seeks UN help- time to act is now!
Ukraine’s foreign minister accuses Russia of starting a full-scale war and urges the UN “to do everything possible” to stop it.
Ukraine’s foreign minister has tweeted: “Putin has just launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.”
He’s stressed that Ukraine “will defend itself” and that “the world can and must stop Putin”.
UK foreign secretary condemns Russia’s operation in Ukraine
Liz Truss, the UK foreign secretary, has tweeted, saying she strongly condemns “the appalling, unprovoked attack President Putin has launched on the people of Ukraine”.
The first explosions were heard here in Kyiv shortly after five in the morning. There were four or five, muffled and distant. Others followed soon afterwards, the most recent sounded closer but still not in the city centre.
One report suggested the airport might be under attack. A government official dealing with the foreign press said airfields and military headquarters had been attacked.
Other reports have been coming in from across Ukraine, including towns in the east, like Kramatorsk, close to areas controlled by pro-Russian separatists. Coming shortly after Vladimir Putin’s latest speech, this appears to mark the start of Russia’s long-awaited attack.