Boris Johnson to address the nation this morning over Ukraine invasion

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will address the nation this morning, following Russia's launch of a 'military operation' in Ukraine.

Reports suggest the televised address will begin within the next hour.

Mr Johnson will also make a statement to MPs in the House of Commons at 5pm today.

It comes as explosions were heard in Ukrainian cities Kyiv, Odesa and Kharkiv this morning.

Get the latest updates on the Ukraine situation over on our live blog

About 40 people have been killed so far in the attack, an adviser to Ukraine’s president said.

Earlier, Boris Johnson described the Russian military action in Ukraine a “catastrophe for our continent” and called for an urgent meeting of Nato leaders.

In a Tweet, he said: "This is a catastrophe for our continent. I will make an address to the nation this morning on the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

"I will also speak to fellow G7 leaders and I am calling for an urgent meeting of all NATO leaders as soon as possible."

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to “consequences they have never seen”.

Yesterday, the UK set out its 'first barrage' of sanctions against the country, targeting Russian oligarchs and banks.

But Mr Johnson said more severe sanctions would be brought in should a full-scale invasion of Ukraine occur.

The Prime Minister will also address MPs in the House of Commons at 5pm today.