Russia-Ukraine live updates: Russia says recognition of separatist areas includes territory held by Ukrainian forces; Germany halts major gas pipeline

By Rachel Pannett The Kremlin said Russia has recognized the independence of rebel-held regions within borders that the separatists originally proclaimed when they broke away from Ukraine in 2014, sparking fears of a wider invasion.

Source: Russia-Ukraine live updates: Russia says recognition of separatist areas includes territory held by Ukrainian forces; Germany halts major gas pipeline