Putin tightens grip on Ukraine and Russia with martial law

MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared martial law in the four regions of Ukraine that Moscow annexed. Putin also gave additional emergency powers to all regional governors in Russia, a move that opens the door for sweeping new restrictions throughout the country. Putin didn’t immediately spell out the steps that would be taken under martial law but said his order was effective starting Thursday. His decree gives law enforcement agencies three days to submit specific proposals and orders the creation of territorial defense forces in the annexed regions in Ukraine. Legislation that the upper house of Russia’s parliament approved later Wednesday indicates the martial law might involve restrictions on travel and public gatherings, curfews and censorship.