Russian parliament gives Putin permission to use military force outside Russia

Western leaders earlier said Russian troops had moved into the country’s east – and the US called it an invasion

Russian President Vladimir Putin. Picture: Mikhail Klimentyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP

Legislators have given Russian President Vladimir Putin permission to use military force outside the country – a move that could presage a broader attack on Ukraine after the US said an invasion was already under way there.

Several European leaders said earlier in the day that Russian troops have moved into rebel-held areas in eastern Ukraine after Mr Putin recognised their independence.