Ukraine homes left smouldering after Russian shelling assault

The EU has condemned Vladimir Putin for "bringing war back to Europe".

In Summary

• The attacks began on Wednesday on the breakaway areas of Eastern Ukraine.

Firefighters and residents are on the scene of shelled buildings in Chuguev, Ukraine, as Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a military operation in Ukraine with explosions heard across the country.

The attacks began on Wednesday on the breakaway areas of Eastern Ukraine.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking in Brussels, condemned Vladimir Putin for "bringing war back to Europe".

She announces a package of "massive" sanctions will be proposed later in a bid to weaken Russia's economic base and its "capacity to modernise".

WATCH: The latest news from around the World