Summary: Vladimir Putin ordered a full-scale invasion of Ukraine this morning. Troops are reported to have crossed the border. Read below to find out more.
A war has begun on European soil once again. Hopes for diplomatic solutions to the recent escalation of tensions on Europe’s easternmost frontiers were dashed at 5 AM this morning; when Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the beginning of ‘special military operations' in eastern Ukraine.
The West is expected to launch its waves of sanctions over the next 24hrs.
Last night Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the entirety of the Russian population in a heart-breaking speech that he delivered to them in Russian. He urged anyone listening to understand that Ukraine stood for peace and did not display any form of aggression toward Russia. Zelensky urged Russian officials to open dialogue with them via any means, adding that they would do everything they could to stop a war.
Airstrikes have been reported all over the country; hitting military and civilian targets alike. Infantry and armored sightings have been fewer in number thus far.
The response from Russia? Vladimir Putin took to state TV at 5 AM Thursday morning to announce that Russia would be conducting ‘special operations' in eastern Ukraine. Missile strikes and shelling of Ukrainian military and civilian areas began shortly after. Casualties are reported to have already exceeded the hundreds and reports are in that Russian troops are flowing in from Ukraine’s northern frontier with Belarus. The US, UK, EU, UN, and NATO will all be delivering their updated responses to the new form of Russian aggression later today as the invasion continues.
We will bring you more updates as they come…