Russia declares ceasefire near Mariupol steel plant
Moscow: According to the Russian Defense Ministry, there will be a ceasefire around the Azovstal steel mill in Mariupol, which will allow the last Ukrainian resistance to be evacuated from the industrial region. This was declared on Monday by the ministry.
According to a statement from the defence ministry, Russia’s military says it would “unilaterally end any hostilities, remove units to a safe distance, and ensure the exit of civilians” on April 25, 2022.
It said the civilians will be taken “in any direction they have chosen”.
“By raising white flags” at Azovstal, the Ukrainian side should signal “readiness” to begin the evacuation process.
“Radio channels” will broadcast this information every 30 minutes, according to the ministry.
Russia claimed last week that it had seized full control of the vital eastern Ukrainian city, except for the Azovstal industrial complex.
With the help of Ukrainian troops, several residents are said to have taken refuge at the nearby steelworks.