Volodymyr Zelensky: Russian soldiers are trying to seize the former nuclear power plant Chernobyl, this is a declaration of war against the whole of Europe

Russian soldiers have entered the area surrounding Chernobyl and are trying to seize the former nuclear power plant, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky said.

He confirmed that Ukrainian troops were fighting with the Russian army around the zone.

"Our defenders are giving their lives so that the tragedy of 1986 will not be repeated," Mr Zelensky tweeted.

"This is a declaration of war against the whole of Europe."