A senior Ukrainian official said Russian forces would enter areas just outside the capital, Kyiv, later on Friday and that Ukrainian troops were defending positions on four fronts despite being outnumbered.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russian troops advance on Kyiv as Ukrainian leader pleads for help

Explosions sounded before dawn on Friday in Kyiv and gunfire was later heard near the government quarter, as invading Russian forces closed in. Russian affairs expert, Fred Weir speaks to WION for more perspective.

Reports: Gunfire heard near Kyiv's government quarter

President Joe Biden has reiterated that US forces “are not, and will not” be engaged in the conflict with Russia in Ukraine. Thousands of US ground and other forces have been deployed to NATO countries in eastern Europe that feel threatened by Russia.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: US will not engage in war with Russia

According to reports, Kremlin claimed to have destroyed 118 Ukraine's military infrastructure sites while Russia's paratroopers have taken control of Chernobyl plant & entered Kyiv.

Reports: Russian troops destroy 118 Ukrainian military sites

Top Biden administration official has said that Russian forces have entered Ukraine through Belarus and are about 20 miles from Kyiv. At least two loud explosions reverberated across the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, at dawn on Friday.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russian forces about 20 miles away from Kyiv, warns US

Russian airborne troops have taken control of the Antonov Airport, which is about 25 miles away from the capital city Kyiv, Ukraine.