Russia-Ukraine Crisis Live Updates: Russian President Vladimir Putin Recognises Separatist Areas As Independent

Despite warnings from the West that the action may lead to sweeping penalties, Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized the independence of two separatist areas in eastern Ukraine in an emotional address broadcast on state television on Monday.

"I believe it is imperative to take a long-overdue decision, to immediately recognize the independence and sovereignty of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Lugansk People's Republic," he declared, before state television showed Putin in the Kremlin signing mutual aid deals with rebel commanders.

Japan criticises Russia, will discuss sanctions

Fumio Kishida, Japan's Prime Minister, slammed Russia for infringing on Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, saying his country will debate possible harsh measures, including sanctions, with the international community. Kishida was responding to Russian President Vladimir Putin's signing of a proclamation Monday recognizing the independence of two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine and ordering his forces to keep the peace there. The announcement by Putin sparked worries of an impending invasion.

Clear attack on Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity: Blinken

US Secretary of State Tony Blinken said on Monday that President Vladimir Putin's decision to recognize the so-called Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics as independent is a clear attack on Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Putin issued decrees recognizing the independence of the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics.

The US slammed the move, saying it "represents a full rejection" of Russia's pledges under the Minsk agreements and plainly contradicts Russia's ostensible commitment to dialogue.

Ukraine president tells nation “We are not afraid of anyone” 

After Russia recognized the independence of separatist regions, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed the people that Ukraine is "not frightened of anyone or anything."

Putin orders Russian troops to Ukraine after recognizing breakaway regions

After recognizing two separatist areas in eastern Ukraine as independent on Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the deployment of soldiers, escalating a crisis that the West worries will escalate into a major conflict.

Japan likely to join any US-led sanctions on Russia - Reports

Should President Vladimir Putin authorize an invasion of Ukraine, Japan is likely to join US-led sanctions against Russia, including a ban on-chip and other crucial technology exports, according to the Yomiuri newspaper on Tuesday.