Russia Captures Chernobyl Nuclear Plant, Modi Appeals to Putin To End Violence
Catch all the live updates on the Russia-Ukraine tensions here.
Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a "military operation" in Ukraine on Thursday, 24 February, calling upon Ukraine military to lay down its arms. Live updates.
(Photo: The Quint/Deeksha Malhotra)
Soon after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a "special military operation" in Ukraine on Thursday, 24 February, explosions, missile attacks, and air strikes were reported from across the latter nation.
The Russian troops have seized control of the Chernobyl nuclear plant in Ukraine, after fighting between the Ukrainian military and the invading forces, as per reports.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to President Vladimir Putin on the phone, appealing for an immediate cessation of violence, asking for all sides to return to the path of diplomatic dialogue.
As many as 40 soldiers and 10 civilians have been killed so far, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said. Eighteen more were reported dead from a military base in Odessa in Ukraine, after the statement was made.
Russian forces have reportedly broken into the country from the north of Kyiv region, AFP quoted Ukraine border guards as saying. They have also launched an invasion into Ukraine through Crimea in the south
Martial Law was declared in Ukraine on Thursday morning
The Indian Ambassador in Kyiv has issued a statement saying that the embassy is working to evacuate Indian nationals from Ukraine
Putin has blamed NATO for "pumping modern weapons and ammunition" into Ukraine and warned against Ukraine joining NATO, a move it feels brings Western Europe closer to the Russian borders
Both NATO and Ukraine have rejected this demand, which has motivated Russia to declare military action
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US State Dept Calls Responsibility of Pakistan PM to Object Russian Action
Reacting to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s visit to Moscow, amid rising tensions, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said that it’s the responsibility of every “responsible” country to voice objection to Russia's actions in Ukraine, ANI reported.
UNSC To Convene Again To Discuss Ukraine
United Nations (UN) Security Council will convene for a second time this week to discuss Ukraine, news agency ANI reported.
‘Do Russians Want War?’: Ukraine President Appeals to Russians
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in an address to the citizens of Russia amid the Ukraine-Russia crisis, said on Thursday, "Today, I initiated a phone call with the Russian Federation President, which resulted in silence... this step could become the beginning of a big war," news agency ANI reported.
He added,
Appealing to Russian citizens, Zelenskyy further said, "If Russian leadership doesn't want to sit down for peace, with us, then maybe it will sit down at a table with you. Do Russians want war? I would very much like to answer this question. But the answer depends only on you, the citizens of the Russian Federation."
Flight With 182 Indian Citizens Lands at Delhi Airport
A special flight of Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) landed at Delhi Airport from Kyiv, at 7:45 am on Thursday, with 182 Indian citizens, including students, an official of UIA in India told ANI.
‘Give Peace a Chance’: UN Secretary-general
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said during the UN Security Council meet, "Indeed an operation is being prepared (by Russia). President Vladimir Putin, stop your troops from attacking Ukraine. Give peace a chance."
Putin Announces 'Military Operation', Asks Ukraine Military to 'Lay Down Arms'
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "military operation" in Ukraine on Thursday, calling on Ukraine military to "lay down its arms", news agency AFP reported.
Putin added, "Foreign powers that intervene in Ukraine conflict will witness consequences they have not seen before."
France Asks Its Citizens To Leave Ukraine ‘Without Delay'
Joining the list of countries that have asked its citizens to leave Ukraine, fearing an all-out Russian invasion, France on Wednesday also called on its citizens to leave Ukraine "without delay".
France's foreign ministry said in a statement, "In the context of serious tensions caused by the concentration of Russian troops on Ukraine's borders...French citizens finding themselves in Ukraine should leave the country without delay."
United States at UNSC Meet
With a full Russian invasion in sight, US Representative Linda Thomas-Greenfield said at the UN Security Council, "We will continue to respond to Russia's action with unity. We are here to ask Russia to stop, return to their border, send troops back to barracks. Bring your diplomats to the negotiation table...Russia literally has violated Ukraine's sovereignty."
She added, "I met with Ukraine Foreign Minister. He said 'No one will be (left in relief) if Putin decides to move forward with this aggression against Ukraine. Your governments will face the same consequences as us if this continues."
Explosions Heard in Kyiv
Journalist Matthew Chance, a 21-year veteran of CNN, wore his flak jacket and helmet live on the air as explosions were heard in Kyiv.
Ukraine Restricts Civilian Flights in Its Airspace
Civilian flights have been restricted in Ukrainian airspace "due to potential hazard for civil aviation", according to a NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) issued to airmen on Thursday after a conflict monitor zone increased the risk to ‘do not fly’, Reuters reported.
Air India’s second special flight AI-1947 had left for Ukraine’s Boryspil on Thursday morning.
‘Will Respond in a United and Decisive Way’: US President Joe Biden
Responding to the the Russian "military operation" launched in Ukraine, United States President Joe Biden said, "Prayers of the entire world are with the people of Ukraine tonight as they suffer an unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces. President Putin has chosen a premeditated war that will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering."
He added, "Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will bring. The US and its allies will respond in a united and decisive way. The world will hold Russia accountable."
‘Anyone Who Interferes Will Face Consequences Never Faced Before’: Vladimir Putin
After launching a "military operation" in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin, said, "Our plans (of special military operation) in Ukraine do not include occupying Ukrainian territory. We will aim at demilitarisation and denazification of Ukraine."
He warned,
Explosion Heard in Eastern Ukraine, Odessa Port
After the announcement, an explosion was heard in Kyiv and Mariupol in eastern Ukraine. Powerful explosions were also heard in Ukraine's Black Sea port Odessa, AFP reported.
Meanwhile, oil prices break $100 on Russian 'military operation' in Ukraine.
'Responsibility of the UN to Stop This War': Ukraine at UNSC Meeting
At an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, the Ukraine Representative spoke directly to the Russian Representative and said, "Russian President on record declared war...It's the responsibility of this body to stop this war. I call on everyone to stop the war...Should I play the video of your president calling the war," ANI quoted.
Sensex Crashes by 1,428.34 Points
Sensex dips 1,428.34 points, stands at 55,803.72.
'Putin Has Launched a Full-Scale Invasion, World Must Stop Him': Ukrainian Foreign Min
"Ukraine will defend itself and will win. Putin has just launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Peaceful Ukrainian cities are under strikes. This is a war of aggression. The world can and must stop Putin. The time to act is now," Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba wrote on Twitter.
The statement came as explosions were heard across multiple ukrainian regions, including Kyiv.
Special Flight from Ukraine Lands in Delhi
A special flight from Ukraine, comprising Indian nationals including students, landed in Delhi on Thursday morning.
The Indian Embassy in Kyiv had issued an advisory to all students, urging them to return to India without waiting for an official confirmation from the universities.
Explosions Rattle Ukrainian City of Kharkiv
Explosions heard in Kharkiv, which is a a major Ukrainian city just south of the Russian border, AFP reported.
British PM Boris Johnson Says UK Will 'Respond Decisively'
'We are Working, the Army is Working': Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy Urges Calm
In an address to the nation, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, "Russia performed strikes on our military infrastructure and our border guard units. In many cities of Ukraine people heard the blasts."
He added, "A minute ago I spoke to President Biden. The USA has started to unite international support. Today we need each of you to stay calm. If you can, stay at home. We are working. The army is working. The whole security and defence sector of Ukraine is working."
US President Joe Biden's Statement on Phone Call With Ukraine President
Air India Flight Enroute to Kyiv Returning After NOTAM
Air India's special flight AI1947, which had left for Kyiv is coming back to Delhi due to NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) at, Kyiv, Ukraine, reports PTI.
EU Chief Denounces Russia's 'Military Operation' in Ukraine
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday denounced Russia's attack on Ukraine and vowed to hold Moscow "accountable", reported news agency AFP.
"In these dark hours, our thoughts are with Ukraine and the innocent women, men and children as they face this unprovoked attack and fear for their lives," von der Leyen said.
Amidst Russia's 'Military Operation', Citizens Take Shelter Against Shelling
News wires across the world have reported that citizens can be seen hurrying to find shelter in underground metro stations and basements in light of the unfolding crisis in the country.
Five Russian Planes Shot Down in Luhansk: Ukraine Army
Ukraine military has said that five Russian planes and a Russian helicopter were shot down in Luhansk region, Reuters reported.
Air raid sirens went off in Kyiv and smoke was reportedly seen rising from major airbases outside cities of Kharkiv on Thursday, after Putin authorised a 'military operation' on Ukraine.
'Building an Anti-Putin Coalition': Ukraine Prez Interacts With World Leaders
'Dark Day for Europe': German Chancellor Olaf Scholz
Russia's attack on Ukraine marks a 'dark day for Europe', German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said, AP reported.
Indian Embassy Issues Advisory for Its Citizens in Ukraine
The Embassy of India in Kyiv issued a statement on Thursday, advising all those travelling towards Kyiv to return to their respective cities, "especially towards safer western bordering countries."
At least 7 Killed, 9 Injured Due to Russian Shelling: Ukraine
As per Reuters, Ukraine officials have said that at least 7 people have been killed, and 9 wounded by Russian shelling.
Smoke fumes could be seen coming out of a military base near the airport earlier in the day, and tanks moved into the city of Mariupol, after Russian President Vladimir Putin authorized a "military operation" in eastern Ukraine, Reuters reported.
'Will Ask Centre to Intensify Actions': Kerala CM on Indian Students in Ukraine
"There are reports that war has started in Ukraine. There are students from Kerala in Ukraine. We've already brought it to the notice of the Centre, it's taking action on it. We will ask the Centre to intensify its actions," Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan stated while addressing the state Assembly on Thursday.
Russian Ruble Falls 9% Against US Dollar
Following Russian offensive in Ukraine, Russian ruble falls 9% against dollar.
Meanwhile, Moscow Stock Exchange plunges almost 14 percent on Thursday.
Visuals From Ukraine
Mariupol: People line up to withdraw their money from an ATM in Mariupol, Ukraine, Thursday. Ukraine's border guard agency says that the Russian military has attacked the country from neighbouring Belarus. The agency said that the Russian troops unleashed artillery barrage as part of an attack backed by Belarus.
This photo shows a view of the city of Kyiv, Ukraine on Thursday, 24 Feb.
Russian Ground Forces Enter Ukraine: Border Guards
"Russian ground forces cross into Ukraine," news agency AFP quoted border guards as saying.
Reuters, too, cited the Ukrainian border guard as saying that separate Russian military personnel have crossed across the border, into Chernihiv, Kharkiv and Luhansk regions.
European Commission to Target Russia With 'Massive' Sanctions
European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday announced that the body would present a package of "massive and targeted sanctions" to European leaders for their approval.
She said that these sanctions are designed to take a heavy toll on the Kremlin's interests and on their ability to finance the war:
"With this, we'll target strategic sectors of Russian economy by blocking their access to key technologies and markets," von der Leyen added.
She added that they would weaken Russia's economic base and its capacity to modernise.
"In addition, we'll freeze Russian assets in EU and stop access of Russian banks to European financial market. Like with the first package of sanctions, we're closely aligned with partners and allies," von der Leyen said, according to news agency ANI.
Zelenskyy Urges Global Leaders to Provide Defence Assistance to Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday urged global leaders to provide defence assistance to Ukraine and help protect its airspace from Russia, reports AP.
Zelenskyy said that Russia “has unleashed a war with Ukraine and the entire democratic world.”
He asked for world leaders to provide large-scale defence support and to protect Ukraine’s airspace from the “aggressor.”
Special Flights Between India-Ukraine Cancelled: Indian Embassy
The Indian Embassy in Kyiv issued a statement saying, "In view of closure of Ukrainian air space, schedule of special flights stands cancelled. Alternative arrangements are being made for evacuation of Indian nationals."
Russian Military Vehicles Enter Ukraine From Crimea
Security camera footage shows a a line of Russian military vehicles, including tanks and other equipment, crossing into Ukraine from Russian-annexed Crimea, AP reported.
As Citizens Flee, Congestion Seen on Roads Leading Out of Kyiv
With civilians fleeing in large numbers, long lines of traffic could be seen on a road leading out of Kyiv on Thursday.
People walk in a subway to get a train as they leave the city of Kyiv, Ukraine
Traffic jams are seen as people leave the city of Kyiv, Ukraine.
Frightened citizins also took to metro stations in Kyiv, as air raid sirens rang out across the country's main cities, AFP reported.
"Waiting for India's Active Support": Ambassador of Ukraine to India
"We are waiting for active support of the Indian leadership in stopping this war," Dr Igor Polikha, Ambassador of Ukraine to India said, news agency ANI quoted.
"At the present moment, we're asking, pleading for support of India. In case of aggression of totalitarian regime against democratic state, India should fully assume its global role," he added.
Killed 50 Russian Occupiers, Says Ukraine
Hours after Russia began its 'invasion' into the country, Ukraine says it has killed 'around 50 Russian occupiers', AFP reported.
Ukraine Breaks Off Diplomatic Ties With Russia
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday, announced the severing of all diplomatic ties with Russia and urged Russians to protest against the war sparked by Russia 'military operation' in Ukraine.
Over 40 Ukrainian Soldiers, 10 Civilians Killed
Adviser to the President Office in Ukraine informed that over 40 Ukrainian soldiers have died and several dozen are wounded, Reuters reported. At least 10 civilians have reportedly lost their lives amidst the crisis.
Kyiv: Workers prepare to load the debris of a rocket onto a truck the aftermath of Russian shelling in Kyiv, Ukraine.
Kyiv: Workers load the debris of a rocket onto a truck the aftermath of Russian shelling in Kyiv, Ukraine
Mariupol: Damaged radar arrays and other equipment is seen at Ukrainian military facility outside Mariupol, Ukraine.
'Will Give Weapons to Anyone Who Wants to Defend Ukraine': Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Taking to Twitter, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a desperate plea against the Russian offensive, calling upon its citizens to be "ready to to support Ukraine in the squares of our cities."
Lithuania to Declare State of Emergency
Lithuania will impose a state of emergency following Russian invasion of Ukraine, AFP reported President Gitanas Nausėda as saying.
Meanwhile, Moldova announced closure of its airspace citing Russian invasion of Ukraine.
'I Am Against This War': Kremlin Critic Alexei Navalny
Jailed Kremlin critic and opposition leader Alexei Navalny condemned Moscow's invasion of Ukraine as he stood trial from prison, saying that he is "against this war."
"This war between Russia and Ukraine was unleashed to cover up the theft from Russian citizens and divert their attention from problems that exist inside the country," he added, AFP reported.
'Working to Find a Solution': Indian Ambassador in Ukraine Issues Statement on the Crisis
'Working to Bring Back 18k Indians': MoS of MEA
"MEA is taking steps to bring back about 18,000 Indians, including students from Ukraine. As the air space in Ukraine is closed, alternative arrangements are being made for the evacuation of Indian nationals. Central govt will ensure the safety of all Indians," V Muraleedharan, MoS of MEA stated on Thursday.
He added, "I spoke to Malayali students in Ukraine on phone. Indian students in the southern areas of Ukraine have told us that they're getting food, water and power. Students and parents should not panic."
NATO to Hold a Video Summit on Friday
NATO will hold a video summit on Friday to discuss the Russian invasion of Ukraine, AFP reported diplomats as saying.
"NATO condemns Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the strongest terms. We call on Russia to immediately seize its military action and withdraw from Ukraine," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Thursday, while Russian military columns entered Kyiv and other cities in Ukraine.
WATCH: Ukrainian President Zelenskyy Urges Citizens to 'Stay Calm' Amid Russian Invasion
'100 Jets, 120 Allied Ships on High Alert, Will Do Whatever Is Necessary': NATO
"NATO condemns Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the strongest terms. We call on Russia to immediately seize its military action and withdraw from Ukraine," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said at a press briefing.
"We've over 100 jets at high alert protecting our airspace and more than 120 allied ships at sea from north to the Mediterrarean. We will do whatever is necessary to shield the alliance from aggression. NATO leaders to meet tomorrow to address the way forward," he added, saying that NATO allies are imposing severe sanctions upon Russia.
Russia Acting Like Nazi Germany: Ukraine President
"Russia treacherously attacked our state in the morning, as Nazi Germany did in #2WW years. As of today, our countries are on different sides of world history. Russia has embarked on a path of evil, but Ukraine is defending itself & won't give up its freedom no matter what Moscow thinks," President Zelenskyy stated.
18 Dead in Attack Near Ukraine's Odessa
Eighteen people have been killed in attack near Ukraine's Odessa, AFP reported, citing an official.
China Rejects Calling Russia Action on Ukraine an 'Invasion'
China rejected calling Russia's moves on Ukraine an "invasion" and urged all sides to exercise restraint.
"Regarding the definition of an invasion, I think we should go back to how to view the current situation in Ukraine. The Ukrainian issue has other very complicated historical background that have continued to today. It may not be what everyone wants to see," said Hua Chunying, spokesperson at China's foreign ministry.
Russian Forces Break Into North of Kyiv Region: Border Guards
Russian forces break into north of Kyiv region, AFP quoted Ukraine border guards as confirming.
No Plans To Send NATO Troops Into Ukraine: NATO Secy General
“We have already increased and we are increasing the presence of NATO troops in the eastern part of the alliance. We do not have NATO troops in Ukraine and we do not have plans to send Nato troops to Ukraine,” NATO’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said.
Kremlin Says Russians Will 'Support' the Military Op
The Kremlin said on Thursday that it believed Russians would "support" Moscow's military operation in Ukraine, saying that the duration of the mission would depend on "results" and would last as long as necessary, AFP reported.
It noted that the assault should ideally cleanse the country of "Nazis" and "neutralise" Kyiv's military potential.
'Massive Sanctions To Hobble Russia's Economy Underway': UK PM Boris Johnson
"Today, with our allies, we will agree on a massive package of economic sanctions designed in time to hobble the Russian economy. We must also collectively seize our dependence on Russian oil and gas that for too long has given Putin his grip on western politics," UK PM Boris Johnson said in an address on Thursday.
"We cannot and will not just look away," he said.
Calling Putin a 'dictator,' Johnson called the Ukraine invasion a "hideous and barbaric venture."
Seek Refuge in Bomb Shelters if Such a Situation Arises: Indian Advisory to Nationals in Ukraine
The Indian embassy in Ukraine, in its third advisory released on Thursday, told Indian nationals in the war-ridden country to avoid leaving their homes unless absolutely necessary, and to carry their documents with them at all times.
It advises Indian nationals in Ukraine to seek refuge in bomb shelters if they hear air sirens or bomb warnings.
Ukraine Military Plane With 14 Crashes Near Kyiv
A Ukraine military plane with 14 persons aboard has crashed near capital city Kyiv, AFP reported.
WATCH: Ukraine President Zelenskyy Says 'Ready for Everything' Amid Invasion
PM Modi To Hold Meet on Economic Fallout of Russia-Ukraine Crisis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to hold a key meeting on Thursday evening with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and other senior officials on the economic implications of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine – particularly with regard to soaring crude oil prices.
'Most Serious Attack on Peace in Europe': French Prez Macron
French President Emmanuel Macron said that Russian’s aggression against Ukraine constituted “the most serious attack on peace, on stability in Europe for decades,” in a national address Thursday.
"The sanctions imposed on Russia will be commensurate with the aggression of which it is guilty,” Macron said, adding that, “we will be without weakness."
3 Russian Helicopters Shot Down Near Kyiv: Ukraine
The Ukrainian Interior Ministry has said that three Russian helicopters were shot down in the Kyiv region.
“One Russian helicopter K-52 and three helicopters near Gostomel were shot down in the Kyiv region, near Mezhyhirya,” the ministry said in a statement published on its website.
Congress MP Writes to EAM, Seeks Safety of 2,000 Indian Students in Ukraine
Congress MP KC Venugopal has written to External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar seeking his intervention to ensure the safety of Indian citizens, including around 2000 students, belonging to Kerala in Ukraine.
Belarus Opposition Leader Announces Establishment of Govt in Exile After Russian Invasion
Belarus Opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya announced the establishment of a government in exile after president Alexander Lukashenko allowed the country to be used by Russia for the invasion of Ukraine.
“I am taking on the responsibility to represent the Republic of Belarus and the Belarusian people,” she announced at the Lithuanian embassy in Paris on Thursday, adding that she would soon form a cabinet.
Meanwhile, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said that he expects to discuss the possible deployment of Iskander and S-400 defense systems to Belarus with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in the coming days.
Russian Helicopters Attack Military Airport Just Outside Kyiv
Russian helicopters on Thursday attacked Gostomel, a military airport just outside the capital of Kyiv, and Ukraine downed three of them, Ukrainian officials said.
WATCH: Indian Ambassador's Message to Nationals in Ukraine
WATCH: Russian Military Equipment Crosses Crimea Border
The Ukrainian Border Guard Committee releases CCTV images of Russian military equipment crossing a border checkpoint in Crimea.
'Creating an Anti-Putin Coalition': Ukraine Prez Zelenskyy
"We are creating an anti-Putin coalition. I spoke to EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, Federal Chancellor of the Republic of Austria Karl Nehammer, and President of Turkey Tayyip Erdoğan about concrete sanctions and concrete assistance for our military. We are waiting for decisive action," Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said.
Indian Embassy Team From Hungary Dispatched to Facilitate Exit of Indians From Ukraine
A team from Embassy of India in Hungary has been dispatched to the border post Zohanyi to coordinate and provide assistance to facilitate exit of Indians from Ukraine.
The Government of India is closely monitoring the situation and evacuation plans are being worked out, the Indian embassy in Hungary said in a tweet.
4 Dead, 6 Doctors Injured as Russian Shell Hits Donetsk Hospital
Ukraine’s military command has said that four people were killed and 10 injured when a Russian shell hit a hospital in Vuhledar in the Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine, The Guardian reported. The injured were said to include six doctors.
70 Military Targets, 11 Airfields Destroyed in Ukraine: Russia
Russia has said that it has destroyed over 70 military targets, including 11 airfields, in Ukraine, AFP reported.
'Battle Underway' for Airbase Near Kyiv: Ukraine Army
The Ukrainian army has said that a battle is underway for an airbase near Kyiv.
Russia Has Conducted 203 Attacks Today: Ukraine
The Ukrainian Police on Thursday said that Russia had carried out 203 attacks since the beginning of the day.
US Prez Biden Meets National Security Team on Russia-Ukraine Crisis
US President Joe Biden met with his national security team in the Situation Room to discuss the latest developments in Ukraine, the White House said. He discussed how we will hold Russia accountable for its unprovoked and unjustified attack on Ukraine, as per the official statement.
Russia Warns People To Not Take Part in Anti-War Protests
Russian authorities have told citizens not to participate in anti-war protests, the country’s Investigative Committee warned in a statement on Thursday.
Air Raid Warning Issued in Kyiv
An air raid warning has been issued by the Kyiv city government. All residents are being asked to seek underground shelters.
Air sirens can be heard across Kyiv, as per reports.
Russia Has Conducted 80 Strikes Against Ukraine: UK Defence Report
An intelligence report by the UK Ministry of Defence says that Russia has conducted more than 80 strikes against Ukrainian targets on Thursday. Further, Russian troops are advancing across the border into Ukrainian territory from three axes – North, East, and Crimea (south).
Russian Forces Trying to Seize Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant: Prez Zelenskyy
"Russian occupation forces are trying to seize the #Chornobyl_NPP. Our defenders are giving their lives so that the tragedy of 1986 will not be repeated. Reported this to the Swedish PM. This is a declaration of war against the whole of Europe," tweeted Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
Fighting is reportedly underway between the Russian and the Ukrainian forces in the area.
India Appeals To Ukraine To Ensure Safety of 15k Indian Students
The Indian Embassy in Kyiv, in a communication to the president of Ukraine, has appealed to the administration to ensure the safety of the 15,000 Indian students stranded in the war-ridden country.
Czech Republic Stops Issuing Visas To Russian Citizens
The Czech Republic has stopped issuing visas to Russian citizens, Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala announced.
US President Biden To Address Nation on Russia-Ukraine Invasion
President Biden will speak on the Russian invasion of Ukraine at 12:30 pm local times (11 pm IST), the White House had announced.
7 Killed in Missile Attack on Military Area Near Kyiv
Seven people have been killed and 17 were wounded in a missile attack on a military area in Brovary, northeast of the capital of Kyiv, CNN reported, citing Ukrainian authorities.
Curfew Declared in Kyiv Amid Invasion
A curfew has been declared in Ukraine's capital city, Kyiv.
Kyiv’s Mayor Vitali Klitschko has announced a curfew in the Ukrainian capital from 10 pm to 7 am local time.
“Public transport will not work during curfew. At the same time, metro stations will be available as shelters 24/7,” Klitschko has said.
Russia Vows Tough Retaliation to EU Sanctions
The Russian Foreign Ministry, in a press conference on Thursday, vowed 'tough' retaliation to EU sanctions imposed over Ukraine invasion.
PM Modi To Speak to Prez Vladimir Putin Shortly
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin shortly, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has said.
20k Indian Students in Ukraine, PM Modi's Topmost Priority Is Their Safety: MEA
"At the Cabinet Committee on Security meeting held today, PM Modi has stated that the topmost priority of the government is the safety and security of Indian nationals including students in Ukraine," Foreign Secretary HV Shringla said during a press briefing.
"A number of steps have been taken to deal with the emerging situation in Ukraine. We started the registration of Indian nationals in Ukraine about a month ago. Based on online registration, we found that 20,000 Indian nationals were there," he said.
4000 Indian nationals have left Ukraine in the past few days, he noted.
“We are a concerned party, as a country that has close relations with Russia, with Ukraine,” Shringla said, calling it a “complicated and evolving situation.”
Russia Has Captured Airbase Near Kyiv: Prez Zelenskyy
Ukraine President Zelensky has announced that Russia has captured an airfield near the capital city of Kyiv. The Antonov Airport, also known as Hostomel Airport, lies about 25 miles away from Kyiv.
'We Demand Disconnection of Russia From SWIFT': Prez Zelenskyy
Ukraine has demanded that the world banish Russia from SWIFT banking system.
"We demand the disconnection of Russia from SWIFT, the introduction of a no-fly zone over Ukraine and other effective steps to stop the aggressor," President Zelenskyy said in a tweet.
Teams Being Sent to Evacuate Indian Nationals From Ukraine: MEA
To assist in the evacuation of Indian nationals from Ukraine, teams of the Ministry of External Affairs are being sent to the land borders with Ukraine in Hungary, Poland, Slovak Republic and Romania, as per an official statement.
'Condemn Putin's Refusal To Engage in Diplomatic Process': G7 Nations
In a joint statement following a virtual meeting Thursday, the leaders of the G7 lamented that Russian President Vladimir Putin has "re-introduced war to the European continent."
"We condemn President Putin for his consistent refusal to engage in a diplomatic process to address questions pertaining to European security, despite our repeated offers," the statement reads.
"We stand united with partners, including NATO, the EU and their member states as well as Ukraine and remain determined to do what is necessary to preserve the integrity of the rules-based international order," it adds.
The Group of Seven is an inter-governmental political forum consisting of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
'New Iron Curtain Closing in': Ukraine Prez
"What we've heard today are not just missile blasts, fighting and the rumble of aircraft. This is the sound of a new iron curtain, which has come down and is closing Russia off from civilized world. Our national task is to make sure this curtain does not fall across our land," President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy was quoted as saying by Reuters.
Russian Forces in Belarus Advancing Towards Kyiv: UK Defence Report
Russian forces based in Belarus are advancing towards Kyiv, a UK defence report has noted.
Strikes have been delivered through “a combination of Russian ground, air and sea-launched missiles and by artillery bombardment” and have targeted military infrastructure, as per the report.
Heavy casualties have been suffered on both sides, the UK said, although exact numbers are currently unclear.
Dozens of attack helicopters had swooped south from Belarus towards Ukraine's capital city of Kyiv, AFP had reported.
'No Other Way' To Defend Russia Than by Invading Ukraine: Putin
President Putin has said that there is "no other way" to defend Russia other than by invading Ukraine, AFP reported.
"What is happening is a necessary measure, we were left no other option," he said. The Russian president said risks were created, making it necessary for Moscow to react.
Preparing To Accept Migrants From Ukraine, Provide Healthcare: Poland
"Poland is preparing to accept migrants from Ukraine, including Ukrainian citizens affected by the armed conflict. We will do everything to ensure that every person who enters the territory of Poland has access to healthcare, including hospitalisation. Beds are being prepared in hospitals for the admission of the wounded," Poland health ministry has told Reuters.
13 Civilians, 9 Soldiers Killed in South Ukraine
At least 13 civilians and 9 military personnel were killed in South Ukraine, AFP reports.
PM Modi Speaks To Putin, Urges Resolution of Differences by 'Honest & Sincere Dialogue'
PM Narendra Modi on Thursday night spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "President Putin briefed the PM about the recent developments regarding Ukraine. PM reiterated his long-standing conviction that the differences between Russia and NATO can only be resolved through honest and sincere dialogue," the PMO said in a statement.
"Prime Minister appealed for an immediate cessation of violence, and called for concerted efforts from all sides to return to the path of diplomatic negotiations and dialogue," it added.
The prime minister also sensitised the Russian president about India's concerns regarding the safety of the Indian citizens in Ukraine, especially students, and conveyed that India attaches the highest priority to their safe exit and return to India.
All Russian Banks To Be Excluded UK's Financial System: British PM Boris Johnson Announces Sanctions
Russian banks would be excluded from the UK's financial system as part of further sanctions, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a statement on the Russia-Ukraine crisis.
The UK will impose the “largest and most severe” package of economic sanctions Russia “has ever seen”, Johnson was quoted as saying by The Guardian.
Airline Aeroflot will be banned from the UK.
"Putin will stand condemned in the eyes of the world and history. He will never be able to cleanse the blood of Ukraine from his hands," Johnson said.
Russian Forces Capture Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Russian forces have captured the nuclear power plant in Chernobyl, after battling with the Ukrainian forces, as per reports in the international media.
A Belarus official confirmed the capture, sharing a photo on Twitter.
Earlier in the day, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy had raised alarm over Russia's attempt to seize the Chernobyl plant.