Ukrainian President Declares Martial Law via SNS Amid Russian Attacks: "Stay Calm"

Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine (Photo by Ukraine President SNS account capture)

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared martial law and urged citizens to remain calm through a social media (SNS) video on the 24th (local time) following the start of Russia's military attack.

According to CNN and other broadcasters, President Zelensky explained the situation in the video, saying, "This morning, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a special military operation in Donbas. Russia is carrying out attacks on our military facilities and border forces. Explosions are being heard in several cities across Ukraine."

President Zelensky stated, "I will declare martial law throughout Ukraine," adding, "I just spoke with U.S. President Joe Biden, and the United States has already begun rallying international support." He continued, "Today, we must stay calm. If possible, please stay at home," emphasizing, "We are working, and the military is mobilizing. All security sectors are mobilizing."

He further said, "Do not panic. We are strong. We are fully prepared," and added, "Because we are Ukrainians, we will overcome everyone."

Earlier, President Putin announced that "We cannot tolerate the threat from Ukraine. The situation has forced us to take decisive and swift action," declaring a special military operation in the Donbas region. Following this, foreign media report that explosions presumed to be attacks have been heard in the capital Kyiv, the northeastern second-largest city Kharkiv, and the port city of Odesa located on the northern coast of the Black Sea.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.