Why is Russia attacking Ukraine? Five things you need to know
Europe is facing its greatest security crisis in decades after Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Thursday. The conflict is threatening to destabilize regional political and military alliances and sparking fears that U.S. troops could be drawn into the fighting.
What's happening in Ukraine?
Russia attacked Ukraine on Thursday, including airstrikes and shelling, as civilians fled or sought shelter. Ukraine's government said Russian tanks and troops had crossed the border from the east, north and south in a "full-scale war." Ukrainian authorities described ground invasions in multiple regions. Border guards released footage showing Russian military vehicles crossing into Ukraine's government-held territory. European authorities declared the country's airspace an active conflict zone.
President Vladimir Putin proceeded with the attack despite condemnation and sanctions from the U.S. and other world powers, referring to Russia's nuclear
