KYIV, Ukraine — Russian troops have launched a wide-ranging attack on Ukraine as President Vladimir Putin cast aside international condemnation and sanctions.
Putin warned other countries that any attempt to interfere would lead to “consequences you have never seen.”
Ukraine’s leadership said at least 40 people have been killed so far in what it called a “full-scale war” targeting the country from the east, north and south.
Ukrainian border guards released footage of what they said were Russian tanks moving in. Big explosions were heard in Ukrainian cities Thursday.
The Russian military claimed to have wiped out Ukraine’s entire air defenses in a matter of hours. Ukrainians fled some cities.
World leaders decried the start of a long-anticipated invasion with far-reaching consequences.
President Joe Biden responded Wednesday night after reports of missile strikes were heard in several cities in Ukraine.
"The United States and its allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive way," Biden said. "The world will hold Russia accountable."
Biden said he will meet with his G7 counterparts Thursday morning and then address the American people about "further consequences" being imposed on Russia.
"We will also coordinate with our NATO Allies to ensure a strong, united response that deters any aggression against the alliance," Biden said.