Ukraine’s leadership called it a “full-scale war” targeting the country from the east, north and south. It said Russia’s intent was to destroy the state of Ukraine, a Western-looking democracy intent on moving out of Moscow’s orbit.
>> PHOTOS: World reacts as Russia launches full-scale attack on Ukraine
In Ohio, the start of ground fighting in Ukraine means continued heightened security posture for Wright-Patterson Air Force base. Personnel there had been in an elevated alert posture since late January as tensions heightened around Russia.
>> CLOSER LOOK: Wright-Patterson remains on heightened alert
The fighting in eastern Europe means higher gas prices for drivers in our area.
>> EXPERT: Prices soon could hit $4 per gallon in wake of invasion.
The start of fighting also brought into focus sharp differences in political viewpoints in the U.S. For example, Ohio candidate for U.S. Senate J.D. Vance said he did not care what happened in Ukraine and worried more about the U.S. border with Mexico. Sen. Rob Portman showed support for efforts by the administration to work with allies.
>> DIGGING DEEPER: Russia conflict separates GOP traditionalists from newcomers, even in Ohio
Ohio lawmakers offered their reactions to what was happening in Ukraine.
>> WHAT THEY SAID: Ohio lawmakers respond to Putin’s invasion of Urkaine
As civilians piled into trains and cars to flee Ukraine, NATO and European leaders rushed to respond, mostly with strong financial sanctions against Russia and moves to strengthen their own borders.
The attacks had a swift impact on the world economy, sending stocks down sharply, pushing up prices for oil, wheat and other goods.
>> Stocks tumble; oil and wheat prices soar after Ukraine attack
Here’s what Ukrainians said Thursday morning:
>> ‘The worst sunrise in my life.’ Ukrainians awake to attack
Condemnation from across the world was swift, and many countries, including the United States, said more sanctions of Russia would be coming today.
>> NEW DETAILS: World expresses outrage, stronger Russia sanctions planned
One exception to the near-unanimous condemnation came from China, which has grown closer to Russia of late. The Chinese sought to start talks on Ukraine, avoided criticizing Vladimir Putin and moved to import Russian wheat to help with the sting of international sanctions.
>> CHINA: Russian ally seeks talks to resolve crisis, but also offers potential financial lifeline
Credit: Uncredited
Credit: Uncredited