Russia's invasion of Ukraine became a reality.

In a fiery speech on Monday night, Putin blasted Kyiv's growing security ties with the West, and in lengthy remarks about the history of the USSR and the formation of the Ukrainian Socialist Soviet Republic, appeared to cast doubt on Ukraine's right to self-determination.

"Ukraine has never had traditions of its own statehood," he said, calling the eastern part of the country "ancient Russian lands."

The remarks further stoked fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, which US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Monday could begin within "hours or days."

Prior to Putin's remarks, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had promised "a swift and firm response" from the US and its allies if Russia moves to recognize Ukraine's breakaway regions as part of Russian territory, calling such a move a "gross violation of international law."

Earlier on Monday, Putin held a highly choreographed televised meeting with his top officials, accusing Kyiv of carrying out acts of aggression.

Putin also accused the West of threats and blackmail during the previously unscheduled convening of the Russian security council that, in unusually theatrical setting, was shown on television.

"Yesterday I spoke with the French President on two occasions, with the second call lasting until 2:00 a.m. or so. He assured me that the American position has changed somewhat. But when I asked what these changes are, he, unfortunately, could not say." Putin said.

He then referred to remarks made on Sunday by Blinken, who stressed once again that the issue of Ukraine's membership in NATO is "an issue for Ukraine and for NATO."

Assurances that Ukraine would not be admitted to NATO in the future are one of the central demands made by the Kremlin.

With his top officials assembled in front of him at the extraordinary meeting of the security council, Putin appeared following claims made by the Russian military earlier on Monday that troops and border guards engaged in a clash with a "sabotage and reconnaissance group from the territory of Ukraine" inside Russian territory.

 

https://edition.cnn.com/2022/02/21/europe/russia-ukraine-tensions-monday-intl/index.html

Putin orders troops into separatist-held parts of Ukraine

https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/21/world/europe/putin-says-he-will-consider-recognizing-the-independence-of-two-separatist-territories-in-ukraine.html

Putin says Russia will decide on Monday whether to recognize breakaway regions.