Russia's President has announced a 'partial mobilisation' which will start today putting the country’s people and economy in a new state of war, with military reserves conscripted to service.
Vladimir Putin has also warned his country has weapons to reply to any attack on his territory from the West in an address this morning.
Putin also confirmed support for four occupied regions of Ukraine to hold referendums to join Russia.
The votes are seen by Western nations as attempts to justify the military action from Moscow.
The Russian President says security will be in place for people to cast their vote.
"I shall stress, I will do all we can to ensure safe conditions for holding the referendums, for people to be able to express their will and a decision on their future, that will be made by the citizens of the DNR, the LNR, and the Kherson regions will be supported by us."
Putin also sent out a warning to the West, warning them of his country's military capabilities
"If there is a threat to the territorial integrity of our country, we will undoubtedly use all the resources at our disposal. This is not a bluff."
