In a televised address to the nation, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that military reservists would be sent to Ukraine as part of the "partial mobilization" of the Russian armed forces.
He said it was a necessary step to ensure the territorial integrity and protection of people in the Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine.
Vladimir Putin also accused the West of nuclear blackmail against Russia.
Meanwhile, Western countries have condemned Moscow's plans to hold urgent so-called referendums in parts of Ukraine that are currently under Russian control.
Russian Federation Vladimir Putin addresses Partial Military Mobilization to fight Ukraine
