According to national news sources, Russian president Vladimir Putin has ordered a "major military assault" on Ukraine, with reports of missile strikes and explosions in major cities.
Following what Shapps described as "horrific events", the UK Foreign Office confirmed Ukrainian airspace has been closed.
It also advised those in neighbouring countries, such as Russia, Moldova, Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Romania and Hungary, to be aware of Ukraine travel advice.
In a statement, the FCDO, which has previously advised against all travel to Ukraine, said: "It is likely that commercial routes out of Ukraine will be severely disrupted and roads across Ukraine could be closed."
On Wednesday (23 February), Shapps urged Brits to leave Ukraine while commercial options still exist.
