In an address to Russia and the world, the Russian president Vladimir Putin recognised two breakaway regions Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern Ukraine as independent republics (independent countries) and described Ukraine as an integral part of Russia's history from the USSR era.

Russia also signed friendship treaties envisaging military aid to protect these new countries from what they described as the ongoing Ukrainian military offensive.

Putin ordered Russia's defence ministry to deploy military into the two regions to "keep the peace" in a decree issued shortly after announcing recognition for Russian-backed separatists there, drawing U.S. and European condemnation and vows of new sanctions.

"I believe it is necessary to take a long overdue decision, to immediately recognise the independence and sovereignty of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Lugansk People's Republic," he said.

Following the fast paced developments, an emergency UNSC meeting was called on for Ukraine.

“We demand from Russia to cancel the decision on recognition and return to the table of negotiations.” said Ukraine at UNSC as situations escalate.

India's Permanent Representative to United Nations, TS Tirumurti, said that the well-being of nationals is of top priority as more than 20,000 Indian students and nationals live in different parts of Ukraine. India called for restraint on all sides, stressing that the issue can only be resolved through diplomatic dialogue.

US along with all major European nations including UK, France, Poland, Norway and others have ordered immediate sanctions against Russia for violation of International Law.