WASHINGTON – Russian forces launched an attack on Ukraine early Thursday morning local time, marking the devastating culmination of months of a Kremlin military buildup near its former Soviet neighbor’s border.

According to NBC News, there were explosions in Kyiv after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine.

American President Joe Biden condemned the act Wednesday night, having worked hard to stop an invading force through diplomacy, sanctions and diplomatic measures.

Biden stated that Putin had “chosen a premeditated conflict which will cause a terrible loss of lives and suffering.” According to Biden, he said that he was meeting with G-7 leaders on Thursday and would then “announce any further sanctions the United States of America and its Allies and partners” against Russia in response to the unjustified aggression directed at Ukraine.

It caps an extended buildup for the attack on Ukraine, which was predicted by Putin. This invasion happened as Europe, the U.S. and others made desperate diplomatic attempts during Wednesday night’s United Nations emergency meeting.

An official from the Pentagon stated Wednesday morning that an estimated 80% of Russia’s forces positioned around Ukraine are “ready for attack.”

According to the anonymous source, “They’re literally available to go right now if they get the orders to,” the official said.

According to the official, Russian Putin had enough aircraft, sea and ground assets for “a large-scale invasion.” 

U.S. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Ambassador to United Nations Linda Thomas Greenfield warns that Russia’s aggression against Ukraine may lead to one the most severe refugee crises on the planet.

“Russia could continue down this path,” Thomas-Greenfield stated during a speech at the United Nations.

Over the past months, U.S. allies and their Western counterparts have been watching a constant buildup in Kremlin force along Ukraine’s border with Russia or Belarus. Russia has been mimicking Russia’s tactics since its 2014 illegal annexation and annexe of Crimea in the Black Sea. This sparked international protests that triggered sanctions.

According to the Kremlin, there is no evidence that Russian soldiers stationed along Ukraine’s border with military-grade equipment and advanced weapons are in preparation for an invasion.

This is a developing story. Keep checking back for more updates.