Ukraine officials said a “full-scale invasion” by Russia is underway as explosions are reported across the country.
The Russian president in a televised speech early Thursday said he has authorized a “special military operation” in eastern Ukraine.
Explosions have been reported in multiple cities in Ukraine following Putin’s announcement.
Earlier, Putin secured approval to use armed forces abroad and a Kremlin spokesperson said that Russian-backed leaders in eastern Ukraine requested military assistance.
US President Joe Biden said in a statement, “President Putin has chosen a premeditated war that will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering.”
