There are reports that Belarus - which has acted as a springboard for Russian troops - is now preparing to send its own soldiers into Ukraine to assist in the Russian invasion.

The Washington Post, citing an unnamed US official, said that Belarus was preparing for a troop deployment that could begin as soon as today.

Meanwhile, the Kyiv Independent has cited multiple sources as saying Belarusian paratroopers may be deployed.

Belarus, a longtime Russian ally, borders Ukraine on its north. Its autocratic government voted on Sunday to renounce its non-nuclear status - paving the way for Russia to potentially stage nuclear weapons there.