Vladimir Putin has declared a part mobilisation of Russian forces in Ukraine.
In a television broadcast, Putin went on a tirade against the West, claiming it had a 'hatred' for Russia and accused it of starting a war against his country in Ukraine back in 2014.
The 69-year-old said he has no other choice but to announce pre-emptive military action following a lack of cooperation from the West in finding a solution to the 'Donbas problem'.
Worryingly, Putin even claimed a right to use nuclear weapons to defend the territory, where he claims people are being held 'hostage' by Kyiv'.
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The president also called up reservists to fight in the ongoing conflict, stating that those who break ranks will be punished.
He said: "Only citizens who are currently in the reserve and, above all, those who served in the Armed Forces, have certain military specialties and relevant experience, will be subject to conscription."
Putin’s address comes a day after Russian-controlled regions in eastern and southern Ukraine announced plans to hold votes on becoming parts of Russia.
The plans to absorb the four regions could set the groundwork for Moscow to escalate the war following a number of recent Ukrainian successes on the battlefield.
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The referendums will start in the Luhansk, Kherson and partly Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk areas on Friday (23 September).
Topics: Ukraine, Russia, Vladimir Putin, World News, Politics
Dominic Smithers