There is a growing chorus of condemnation from world leaders and diplomats after Russian President Vladimir Putin authorized a special military operation into eastern Ukraine on Thursday.
Putin’s announcement during a televised early morning speech came as the United Nations Security Council held an emergency meeting at the request of Ukraine over escalating tensions with Russia. Read more: Ukraine says ‘full-scale invasion’ by Russia underway as Putin orders military operation Putin said the action comes in response to threats coming from Ukraine, yet insisted Russia doesn’t have a goal to occupy the country.
The Russian leader warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to “consequences they have never seen.” Here’s a look at the international reaction to Moscow’s latest move.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said Russia has launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine and is targeting cities with weapons strikes. “Putin has just launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.