Todys news reports of explosions as Russian forces launch Ukraine military assault-BBC News

Russian forces have launched a major military assault in Ukraine, with reports of explosions near major cities across the country.

In a pre-dawn TV statement Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia did not plan to occupy Ukraine, but said Moscow's response would be "instant" if anyone tries to stop this.

Shortly afterwards, reports began of attacks on Ukraine's military targets. Ukraine said that "putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine".