- Ukraine's government has urged its citizens living in Russia to leave the country "immediately" as tensions rise.
- The Ukrainian ministry of foreign affairs told citizens to not travel to Russia and for those who are already in the country to get out.
- Up to 3 million Ukrainians currently live in Russia, according to NBC News.
Ukraine's government has urged its citizens living in Russia — up to an estimated 3 million people — to leave the country "immediately" amid rising tensions.
The Ukrainian ministry of foreign affairs on Wednesday issued a statement telling citizens not to travel to Russia and for those who are already in the country to get out as soon as possible.
"In connection with the intensification of Russian aggression against Ukraine … the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine recommends the citizens of Ukraine to refrain from any visits to the Russian Federation, and those who are in this country to leave its territory immediately," the ministry said.
The ministry added, "We emphasize that disregarding these recommendations will significantly complicate ensuring the adequate protection of Ukrainian citizens in the Russian Federation."
Between 1.9 million and 3 million Ukrainians are currently living in Russia, NBC News reported.
The move comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin this week recognized the independence of two Moscow-backed separatist regions in eastern Ukraine and ordered troops there.
Putin also said he recognized separatists' full territorial claims in eastern Ukraine, marking a possible lead-up to a major offensive.
US President Joe Biden on Tuesday described Russia's aggression as the "beginning of a Russian invasion of Ukraine" as he announced sweeping sanctions against Russia.