Russia invades Ukraine

Kyiv: Following the heightening tensions with Russia, the Ukraine government imposed a “state of emergency” in the country. Today Morning, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced to conduct “military operations” in regions of Ukraine. Since the declaration, explosion sounds have been heard in many Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv Kharkiv. 

Making the announcement, Putin warned the countries who intend to intervene between Russia- Ukraine would be facing “consequences they have never seen.” Shelling sounds are being heard in several parts of Ukraine. 

In his defence, Putin called these military operations as need of the hour to save the Donbas from the cruelty of the Ukrainian dictatorship. A large military build-up was also witnessed earlier this morning. Russian Spetsnaz (special units) were also seen moving towards DNR in around 200 vehicles. 

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Wednesday initiated a call with the Russian President that turned out to be void. Meanwhile, addressing the citizens of the neighbouring country, President Zelenskiy cited, “Today, I initiated a phone call with the President of the Russian Federation. The result was silence. Though the silence should be in Donbas. That’s why I want to address Today the people of Russia.” 

“I am not addressing you as a President but as a resident of Ukraine. We are separated by more than 2,000 km of common border. Along this border, your troops are stationed, almost 200,000 soldiers, thousands of military vehicles. Your leaders have approved that they take a step forward to the territory of the other country. And this step could be the beginning of a big war on the European continent.”

 “We know for sure that we do not need war, not a cold war, not a hot war, not a hybrid one. But if we are attacked by the enemy troops, if they try to take our country from us, our freedom, our lives, the lives of our children, we will defend ourselves. And when you attack us, you will see our faces, not our backs, but our faces”. 

On the contrary, Putin, while announcing the invasion, cited that the Ukrainian government would be solely responsible for all the bloodshed. 

United States President Joe Biden held a telephonic talk with his Ukrainian counterpart after the invasion started and ensured every possible aid from the US part to the country.