Russia orders troops into eastern Ukraine

We explain what is happening in Ukraine, as Russian President Vladimir Putin orders troops into two rebel-controlled regions in the east of the country, after recognising them as independent states. He said the troops would be a "peacekeeping" force in the regions of Luhansk and Donetsk, which Russia has backed since 2014. We hear reaction from people inside both regions to the escalation of events and discuss how they view their identity.

We bring you all the latest news lines and developments with our colleagues from our Russian and Ukrainian services. We will explain what sanctions are and how they work. And we will look at how NATO and the US might respond.

Also, our regional expert will be answering your questions on Ukraine and Russia. What would you like to know about what is going on? You can send your audio questions to our WhatsApp phone: +447730 751925

(Photo: Ukrainian military forces on the frontline with Russia-backed separatists near the Donetsk region. Credit Getty Images)