Everton defender Vitalii Mykolenko has shared a message in support of his home nation Ukraine following Russia's invasion.
There were widespread reports on Thursday morning of explosions in major cities after Russian president Vladimir Putin announced that a military operation had begun.
Mykolenko has since taken to social media and pleaded the whole world 'helps his homeland'.
READ MORE: Everton to offer Vitalii Mykolenko support following Ukraine invasion
READ MORE: Frank Lampard has just taken first step in solving issue that has plagued Everton for years
"I want the whole world to know that the Russian army is now killing civilians in all cities of independent Ukraine," he wrote in a Instagram post.
"Russian media writes that they are defending Donetsk and Luhansk, but this is not true!
"It’s hard to hear the anxious voice of my parents who are looking for an opportunity to protect themselves and help others and I can not help my parents.
"I ask the whole world to help my homeland. I am proud to be Ukrainian. Glory to Ukraine."
Everton confirmed on Thursday that they will offer Mykolenko all the support he needs, although it is understood he has not requested anything from the club at this stage.
Earlier posts from his Instagram account were in support of his home country with one Instagram story showing a praying emoji.
Blues boss Frank Lampard will confirm in his pre-match press conference on Friday whether the defender will be involved against Manchester City this weekend.
