Huge explosions and gunfire were heard in Ukraine’s capital Kiev after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the start of the Russian military operation against the country on Thursday morning, international and local media reported.

According to the Independent, explosions are coming in from at least five areas in Ukraine or near the Russian border, including Kiev, Odess, Kramatorsk, Berdyansk, Kharkhov, and near the Boryspil Airport.

Ballistic missiles were destroying important facilities and military infrastructure across Ukraine, unofficial Russian sources reported.

Terrified residents rushed to bomb shelters and basements as sounds of missiles and explosions became a constant backdrop.

One woman in the capital said: “I was woken by a friend. I am in the center of Kyiv. I heard the sound of distant explosions and ambulance sirens.”

A CNN reporter described how he heard the explosions in the early hours of Thursday morning.

Matthew Chance, CNN’s senior international correspondent, said: “I just heard a big bang right here behind me. I’ve never heard anything like it.”

He also said that he heard around eight explosions and immediately put on his headgear and jacket as he continued to report from a balcony.

“There are big explosions taking place. I can’t see them or explain what they are.”

Chance continued: “But I will tell you the U.S has warned the Ukrainian authorities there could be air strikes and ground attacks as well around the country, including the capital.

“I don’t know if that’s what’s occurring now but it’s a remarkable coincidence that the explosions come just minutes after Putin gave his speech.

“This is the first time we’ve heard anything. It has been absolutely silent. This is the first time. It has to be more than just a coincidence.

“I think it’s safe where I am. I have a flak jacket.”

Putin described the invasion of Ukraine as a ‘special military operation,’ saying he wants to ‘demilitarize’ and not occupy the country.

He told Russians: “I have decided to conduct a special military operation. Russia cannot exist with a constant threat emanating from the territory of Ukraine.

“You and I have been left with no opportunity to protect our people other than the one we use today.”

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