Putin puts Russia's nuclear forces on alert amid invasion of Ukraine

The move is in response to what Putin has called “aggressive statements” by leading Nato powers.

This means Mr Putin wants Russia's nuclear weapons prepared for readiness to launch after increased tensions between the East and West. 

Mr Putin said: “Western countries aren’t only taking unfriendly actions against our country in the economic sphere, but top officials from leading Nato members made aggressive statements regarding our country."

Damage to property in Kyiv, Ukraine, caused by an explosion during Russia's invasion of Ukraine (PA)

Following its gains to the east in the city of Kharkiv and multiple ports, Russia sent a delegation to Belarus for peace talks with Ukraine, according to the Kremlin.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensk initially suggested other locations, saying his country was unwilling to meet in Belarus because it served as a staging ground for the invasion.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv (PA)

Mr Zelensky has said Russia and Ukraine would meet for negotiations on the Belarusian border. 

“The past night was tough – more shelling, more bombing of residential areas and civilian infrastructure,” Mr Zelensky said.

“There is not a single facility in the country that the occupiers wouldn’t consider as admissible targets.”