CHILLING pictures show Ukrainian KIDS learning how to fire guns amid claims Russian forces are planning to invade any day now.
The startling images show the stark reality of the potential conflict and the public's unwavering defiance of Russian strongman Vladimir Putin.
An army of youngsters joined in the open military training for civilians organised by activists in Kiev as threat of conflict continues to loom.
A host of citizens have pledged to engage in armed resistance if the 130,000 Russian troops on the border strike.
The shocking pictures come after fears Moscow is planning to invade its neighbour within a matter of days.
It seems warnings that Russian forces could "launch an offensive any time" have encouraged the country to ramp up its efforts.
Residents are splashing the cash on military garb as well as stocking up on canned goods in case there is a siege.
Thousands of Ukrainians have vowed to take up arms to defend their country, with one GRAN even signing up for the home guard.
Rumia, 59, was joined by hundreds of other every day people who are preparing to protect their homes from a potentially imminent invasion.
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Another woman was pictured wielding a huge sniper rifle in her flat, warning Putin: "I'll start shooting."
Mariana Zhaglo, a 52-year-old marketing researcher, has said she is willing to do whatever it takes to defend her country.
The mother-of-three has set up a sentry post in her kitchen, arming herself with a massive Zbroyar Z-15 rifle, helmet and camouflage gear as she joins millions of civilians preparing for the imminent Russian invasion.
Other gangs of children were shown how to get to grips with guns back in January by the Ukrainian military during a training day.
New intelligence now suggests Russia will invade Ukraine this Wednesday, February 16, according to
And in one of the most ominous signs of invasion yet, Putin has stationed a range of choppers on the border with Ukraine.
Information received by the Secret Service, CIA and other intelligence services has even gone as far to outline the routes that individual Russian units will take, along with the roles they will play, it reports.
Despite President Joe Biden warning Vladimir Putin Russia will pay "swift and severe costs" if they strike, Russian forces continue to cram on the border.
A crunch phone call between the two presidents ended in deadlock, although the door was left open for further talks.
The US leader said he was prepared to engage in diplomacy while being "equally prepared for other scenarios".