KYIV, March 2 - An investigation into possible war crimes in Ukraine has been launched, after Russia was accused of bombing civilians, BBC reported.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor said evidence was being collected on alleged war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.

It came after 38 nations grouped together to refer the situation in Ukraine to the prosecutor's office.

Cities including Kyiv, Kharkiv and Kherson have come under heavy shelling.