A war has officially broken out in eastern Europe under new orders by the Russian President. 

Vladimir Putin has ordered a military operation in Ukraine, which he argues is to “demilitarise” the state.

He has reportedly told Ukrainian troops they should give up their weapons and “go home”.

It comes after the Ukraine President vowed his country would “fight back” against a Russian invasion.

Reports of explosions in Kyiv and Kharkiv are emerging.

US President Joe Biden says Putin has “chosen a premeditated war that will bring catastrophic loss of life and human suffering”.

“The world will hold Russia accountable,” he said in a statement.

More to come. 

Tap PLAY below to hear more from European correspondent Carrie-Anne Greenbank.

Image: Getty/ WPA Pool