Putin on Ukraine attack: We are defending Russia

February 24, 2022 15:31

Russian president Vladimir Putin's first statement since the invasion of Ukraine this morning.

"People living in territories which are part of today's Ukraine were not asked how they want to build their lives when the USSR was created or after WW2. People living in today's Ukraine, anyone who want to do this, must be able to enjoy this right to make a free choice.

"The current events have nothing to do with a desire to infringe on the interests of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. They are connected with defending Russia from those who have taken Ukraine hostage and are trying to use it against our country."

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine to defend separatists in the east of the country, called the Donbas region. "I have made the decision of a military operation," he said in a surprise statement on television shortly before 6 am.

« Back to LIVE

TOP STORIES

IPL PIX: Gaikwad's hundred, Dube fifty power CSK to 210/4 vs LSG

IMAGES from the IPL 2024 match between Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday.

Intense heatwave sweeps eastern states, spreads to south India: IMD

Heatwave conditions have been prevailing in Odisha since April 15 and the Gangetic West Bengal since April 17, according to the MeT department.

Kerala's Alappuzha reports bird flu; under control, say authorities

At present, the situation in Kerala is being monitored before any action can be taken, they said.

Cummins With Prince Of Tollywood

'An absolute honour to meet you @patcummins30! A big fan! Wishing you and the SRH team all the best!!'

'In KKR, I needed guidance but now I don't need it, now I dictate terms'

A reinforced skillsets and the ability to perfectly read the ebbs and flows of a match have made Kuldeep Yadav a tough customer, but back in 2019 the left-arm wrist spinner felt the need of a guiding force around him as his form went...