Russia-Ukraine crisis: Air defenses in Ukraine destroyed, claims Russia
The crisis between Russia and Ukraine escalated quickly after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced 'military operations' in Ukraine. Following the announcement, several huge explosions were heard across major cities of Ukraine, including the capital Kyiv. News agency Reuters also reported airstrikes on military installations in Kyiv. Later, Russia's Defence Ministry said that Ukrainian air defenses have been 'neutralized,' news agency AFP reported.
Ukraine downs 5 planes, 1 helicopter
Meanwhile, Ukraine claimed that it has shot down five Russian planes and a helicopter. The aircraft were downed in Luhansk, one of the two separatist regions that Russia recently recognized as independent states. "The combined forces give a worthy rebuff to the armed forces of the Russian Federation. Military units in their positions. The enemy suffers losses," the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence tweeted.
7 killed, 9 injured in Ukraine
At least seven people have been killed and nine injured in Ukraine due to Russian shelling, a Reuters report claimed. The news agency also reported that Russian military columns have crossed the Ukrainian border into Chernihiv, Kharkiv and Luhansk region.
Ukraine imposes martial law
Amid the deteriorating situation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy declared martial law across the country. The imposition will mean harder restrictions, including curbs on meetings and movements. "Today each of you should keep calm. Stay at home if you can. We are working. The Army is working. The whole sector of defense and security is working," he said during a brief video address.
'No one is running away': Ukraine's Foreign Minister
"Putin attacked, but no one is running away. Army, diplomats, everyone is working. Ukraine fights. Ukraine will defend itself. Ukraine will win. Share the truth about Putin's invasion in your countries and call on governments to act immediately," Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted.
Putin announced 'military operation' in Ukraine
Earlier in the day, Russian President Vladimir Putin had announced a 'military operation' in Ukraine, news agency AFP reported. "I have made the decision of a military operation," he had said in a televised address. The development follows Russia recognizing independence for two separatist states in eastern Ukraine and ordering troops to move in there for "peacekeeping missions".
