Russian paratroopers have entered neighbouring Kazakhstan to help quash riots that have killed scores and wounded over 1,000.
Within hours of their arrival, gunshots were heard as unidentified soldiers opened fire on cars and protesters.
In the main city, Almaty, morgues are filling up, buildings have been torched and Russian sources say 18 police have been killed, three of them beheaded.
Kazak officials blame “foreign terrorists” for the worst violence seen there since the end of the USSR in 1991. But opposition to the hard-line government appears to be from local sources.
Burned-out cars litter the streets in Almaty and protesters with batons and shields are confronting police.
More than 2,200 people have been arrested. There are huge petrol queues, residents are struggling to buy food and the internet is down so people cannot access cash.
Tonight, amid violence throughout the Central Asian republic, there were claims foreigners were being denied entry.
The Russians went in at the invitation of Kazak president Kassym-Jomart Tokayev under a “peace-keeping” mission from neighbouring countries.
Moscow fears a knock-on effect that could trigger violence in Russia.
Violence began on New Year’s Day after the government raised fuel prices.
On Wednesday protesters torched public buildings, chanting slogans against ex-President Nazarbayev.
Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said: “We condemn the violence and will be co-ordinating with our allies on what further steps to take.”
A Foreign Office spokesman added: “The UK has a close relationship with Kazakhstan and it is important its sovereignty is respected.”
Analysis by Chris Hughes
Vladimir Putin’s dramatic intervention in Kazakhstan may signal a breather for Ukraine, also facing invasion by his forces.
Just 24 hours ago the world was waiting to see if, after weeks of tension, he would strike his pro-Western neighbour.
But now he has had to act in the east to help his friends there and his desperation shows in his devastating use of force.
Moscow fears it may be facing another pro-Western uprising on its doorstep.
And if the revolt in the former Soviet state gains momentum, Russians could start getting ideas of their own.
And that is what Putin dreads most.
