Vladimir Putin announces partial military mobilisation to fight Ukraine war

In a televised address to the nation, Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced military reservists will be sent to Ukraine as part of a "partial mobilisation" of Russian forces.

He said this was a necessary step to ensure territorial integrity and protect people in Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine.

Vladimir Putin has also accused the West of engaging in nuclear blackmail against Russia.

Meanwhile, Western nations have condemned Moscow's plans to hold urgent so-called referendums in parts of Ukraine that are currently under Russian control.