Russian forces have seized control of the city of Kreminna in eastern Ukraine after the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the area, as Moscow launches a new phase of its military offensive in the former Soviet republic.

Russia says it has launched a new stage of military operation in Ukraine, carrying out dozens of airstrikes in eastern Ukraine overnight.

The European Union (EU) says it is planning to put forward "massive" sanctions against Russia, shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine.

Iran blames the interference and provocative measures of US-led NATO for the complication of the Ukraine crisis and the sharp escalation of tensions.

Russian envoy to the United Nations reaffirms Moscow’s “openness to diplomacy”, noting that President Vladimir Putin’s move to declare two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine independent was aimed at foiling the new "Ukrainian military adventure".

At least one Ukrainian soldier is allegedly killed and four others are wounded in fierce clashes between government forces and armed pro-Russians in eastern Ukraine.

The Ukrainian army and pro-Russian forces have started withdrawing from a key area in the country’s volatile east as part of a deal to end the long-running conflict in the region.