Ukraine under full scale Russian attack

Russian forces have launched a major assault on Ukraine, firing missiles on cities and military targets.

BBC News reports the invasion by land, air and sea began after a TV address where Russian President Vladimir Putin demanded that Ukraine's military lay down its arms.

Initial reports of casualties included Ukrainian civilians and soldiers and Russian troops.

Ukraine's leader said his country "won't give up its freedom".

Ukraine has declared martial law, ended all diplomatic relations with Russia and says weapons will be given to anyone who wants them.

In the capital Kyiv, home to almost three million people, warning sirens blared out as traffic queued to leave the city and crowds sought shelter in train stations.

Several neighbouring countries have begun preparations to take in a large number of refugees.

Moldova alone said more than 4,000 people had come over the border from Ukraine.

The UK, EU and other Western allies have vowed to impose tough new sanctions to punish Moscow but say they will not send in troops.

At the UN, there was tense exchange between Ukraine and Russia’s ambassador.

Russian police have detained more than 700 people at anti-war protests.

[Source: BBC]