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Explosions are rocking Ukraine tonight as Vladimir Putin directs Russia’s military to launch a full-scale attack on the country.
According to CNN, an advisor to the Ukrainian Interior Ministry says “the invasion has begun”. That same source said the explosions being heard in the capital and near the border are from “missile strikes”.
Donning a bulletproof vest, a CNN reporter in downtown Kyev was live on TV as blasts sounded in the distance. While unconfirmed, the reporter said most blasts in the capital city seemed to be coming in the direction of the airport.
President Biden condemns “premeditated war” by Putin
The brazen attack came after weeks of efforts by President Biden and western allies to reach a diplomatic solution. In a fiery statement last Wednesday night, President Biden put the blame squarely on Putin’s shoulders.
“The prayers of the entire world are with the people of Ukraine tonight as they suffer an unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces,” Biden said.
“President Putin has chosen a premeditated war that will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering,” the statement continues. “Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will bring, and the United States and its Allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive way. The world will hold Russia accountable.”
Putin’s escalating rhetoric leads to concerns Russia may try to take over larger parts of Ukraine beyond the border
Prior to launching the invasion, Putin issued chilling remarks in a televised address.
Putin announced a “special military operation” to protect the Donbas region of Ukraine, but his language suggested more.
The Russian President made false claims about genocide along the Ukranian border with Russia. The oligarch also called for the “denazification and demilitarization” of Ukraine.
As one national security analyst pointed out, it is impossible to demilitarize a nation without entirely taking it over.
Some are concerned Russia plans to take Kyiv as air strikes take out air and military bases across the country.
Despite calling the invasion a “peacekeeping mission”, Putin continues to push escalated rhetoric.
According to the Associated Press, “Putin warns any foreign attempt to interfere with Russian action would lead to ‘consequences they have never seen’.”
While no specific threats have been made, it should be noted that Russia is one of only five countries on the planet with access to nuclear weapons.
Some are comparing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to the Nazi invasion of Western Europe during World War II.
Retired US General Wesley Clark concurred. He called it “the start of a military operation that Europe hasn’t seen in 75 years.”
This is a developing story, and The Black Wall Street Times will continue with updated reports as the war continues.
