Russian President Vladimir Putin announced, Thursday morning, in a speech to the Russian people, that he had taken a decision to launch a special military operation in Donbass.
“Circumstances require us to take decisive and immediate measures. The Donetsk People’s Republic has turned to Russia for assistance. In this regard, in accordance with Article 51, Part 7 of the UN Charter, with the approval of the Federation Council and pursuant to treaties of friendship ratified by Parliament and mutual assistance with The republics of Lugansk and Donetsk have decided to conduct a special military operation.”
President Putin noted that Russia’s plans do not include the occupation of Ukraine, but that Moscow will strive to disarm it.
The start of the military operation in Donbass
