Summary

1. Russia’s President Vladimir Putin recognises two breakaway regions of Ukraine controlled by Russian-backed separatists
2. Under decrees signed by Putin, Russian troops will perform what were described as “peacekeeping functions” in Luhansk and Donetsk, raising fears troops could soon cross the border
3. In a televised speech, Putin says Ukraine has no history of being a true nation
4. Ukraine’s President Zelensky, in his own late-night speech, says Ukraine is not afraid and will not yield anything to anyone
5. The US imposes sanctions against the rebel territories, prohibiting US citizens from undertaking any new investment, trade or finance there
6. UK PM Boris Johnson will chair a meeting of the government’s emergency committee on Tuesday to agree a significant package of sanctions against Russia
7. Several airlines including Air France and Lufthansa have suspended flights to Ukraine over invasion fears

more https://www.bbc.com/news/live/world-europe-60454795