Putin announces military operation in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday announced a military operation in Ukraine, claiming it's intended to protect civilians. Putin said the action comes in response to threats coming from Ukraine. "I decided to conduct a special military operation. Its goal is the protection of people who, during eight years, suffer from abuse and genocide from the Kyiv regime," Putin said.

He added that Russia doesn't have a goal to occupy Ukraine. Putin warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences they have never seen." He accused the U.S. and its allies of ignoring Russia's demand to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO and offer Moscow security guarantees. He said the Russian military operation aims to ensure a "demilitarization" of Ukraine. Putin said that all Ukrainian servicemen who lay down arms will be able to safely leave the combat area.