Russia's invasion of Ukraine: 57 dead, 169 injured

The Russian government invaded Ukraine after President Vladimir Putin ordered a special military operation in eastern Ukraine on Thursday (February 24th). The invasion was launched via air, sea, and land, resulting in numerous casualties, both injured and dead.

According to a report by *CNN International*, Ukrainian Health Minister Viktor Lyashko stated that 57 people were killed and 169 injured in yesterday's series of invasions. These casualties include those suffering from combat and non-combat injuries resulting from attacks by Russian forces.

Lyashko also reported that hospitals and medical workers are under threat from Russia. In Avdiivka and Vuhledar in Donetsk, a number of medical workers were reportedly killed.

In addition to the deaths and injuries, over 100,000 people have fled Ukraine after cities were bombarded by Putin's forces. Several Central European countries bordering Ukraine have been preparing for the arrival of these refugees for several weeks.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine began after Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized the independence of two Ukrainian regions, Donetsk and Luhansk. These two eastern Ukrainian regions have been controlled by pro-Russian separatists since 2014.