Russian troops near the Ukrainian Border.
Image Source: Wion News
The Russian armed forces had entered Ukrainian territory today morning under ‘peacekeeping’ missions in the disputed territories of Donetsk and Luhansk. These moves came shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk. The Russian President ordered Russian troops to enter the regions to ‘protect’ the peace and stability of the region. Moreover, he termed this operation as a ‘peacekeeping’ operation.
Hours earlier to the ‘peacekeeping’ order, the Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a state address, had declared the rebel-held regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern Ukraine would be formally be recognized as independent by Russia.
This announcement was proof that tensions would escalate between Russia and Ukraine. During his announcements, he had also accused the Ukrainian military of planning a ‘blitzkrieg’ (a quick invasion) and referred to the historic ‘ties’ to Ukraine.
Russian-backed rebel areas in Ukraine.
Image Source: BBC News
Analysts feel the ‘peacekeeping’ operation is the first clear move in a de-facto invasion against Ukraine. Moreover, reports have emerged that Russian forces have already begun to move into rebel-occupied regions. In response, French President Emmanuel Macron has called in a meeting of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Meanwhile, India has asked Ukraine and Russia to show maximum restraint and have peaceful dialogues. India has also begun the process of evacuating non-essential Indians from Kyiv by sending in special flights. India further asked its students to return to the country without the confirmation of online classes by the Ukrainian universities.
While India was calling for a dialogue, Western countries have reported that there would be an array of sanctions levied against President Putin and his inner circle. The United States levied sanctions against Russia after President Joe Biden signed an executive order blocking commerce and investment in the impacted regions. The EU has also said that its sanction would include the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. Meanwhile, Boris Johnson, the British Prime Minister, has stated that the UK will impose harsh economic sanctions against Russia.
References: Poliscope and The Indian Express.
