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Russia, Ukraine, Donetsk People's Republic

Russia Declares War on Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday announced a “special military operation” in Ukraine, unleashing a full-scale invasion by land, air, and sea.

Explosions and gunfire were reported in several major Ukrainian cities, including the capital Kyiv, as Russian forces moved to seize key military targets and infrastructure.

The attack marks a major escalation in the long-running conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which began in 2014 with Russia’s annexation of Crimea and its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine.

In a televised address to the nation, Putin justified the invasion by claiming that Ukraine posed an imminent threat to Russia and that the operation was necessary to “demilitarize” and “denazify” the country.

The international community has widely condemned the invasion, with many countries imposing sanctions on Russia and calling for an immediate ceasefire.

Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine: A Timeline of Events

2014

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Russia annexes Crimea from Ukraine.

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Pro-Russian separatists seize control of parts of eastern Ukraine.

2015

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The Minsk agreements are signed, aiming to end the conflict in eastern Ukraine.

2021

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Russia begins amassing troops on the border with Ukraine.

2022

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February 21: Russia recognizes the independence of the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics.

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February 24: Russia launches a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The Impact of the Invasion

Humanitarian Crisis

The invasion has created a humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, with millions of people fleeing their homes and seeking refuge in neighboring countries.

The United Nations estimates that over 2 million people have fled Ukraine since the start of the invasion.

Economic Impact

The invasion has also had a significant economic impact, both in Ukraine and around the world.

The Russian ruble has plummeted in value, and the Russian stock market has crashed.

The invasion has also disrupted global energy markets, leading to higher oil and gas prices.

Political Impact

The invasion has also had a major political impact, both in Ukraine and around the world.

The invasion has led to a renewed sense of unity in Ukraine and has strengthened support for the government of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The invasion has also prompted NATO to increase its military presence in Eastern Europe and has led to a reassessment of the security situation in the region.

The Future of the Conflict

The future of the conflict in Ukraine is uncertain.

Russia has shown no signs of backing down, and the Ukrainian government has vowed to continue fighting.

The conflict could continue for months or even years, and it is likely to have a lasting impact on the region and the world.