AFP correspondents have seen citizens in Kyiv heading to underground metro stations to take shelter, as Ukrainian authorities declare martial law after Russia launched a military operation into the country.
“I have made the decision of a military operation,” Putin said in a surprise television announcement that triggered immediate condemnation from US President Joe Biden and other Western leaders, and sent global financial markets into turmoil.
Shortly after the announcement, explosions were heard in Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, and several other cities, according to AFP correspondents.
Russia’s defence ministry says it has neutralised Ukrainian airbases and air defence systems. “Military infrastructure at Ukrainian army air bases has been rendered out of action.”