LIVE. Ukraine invasion: explosions in Kiev and other cities, at least seven Ukrainian soldiers killed, also Russian attacks from Crimea and Belarus

The conflict between Ukraine and Russia escalates further: • Putin announces a military operation in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, de facto declaration of war. Earlier this week, he already received permission from parliament to send troops to Ukraine. • Shortly after the announcement, explosions can be heard in several cities in Ukraine, including the capital Kiev and Kharkov. Air-raid sirens can also be heard in several cities • Earlier this week Putin already recognized the independence of pro-Russian self-proclaimed ‘people’s republics’ Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern Ukraine • The United States, EU member states and other countries such as Canada and Australia are followed by sanctions against Russia.

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