Moscow: President Vladimir Putin announced martial law in four Ukrainian regions that were declared part of Russia in September. The move comes as severe setbacks weaken Russian moves in Ukraine. Along with the declaration of martial law, movement has been banned in the eight areas that share the border.
The withdrawal of Russian troops and personnel from Kherson, one of the annexed provinces, continues over the past day. The Russian government in the area ordered that the civilians also leave the country. There are indications that Russia is preparing for a full-scale military operation to retake the city. Civilians are being evacuated as part of this. But Ukraine accuses the move of being part of a strategy to put civilians at risk. Yesterday, Russian military commander General Sergey Surovkin admitted that the situation in Kherson is very difficult.
Here, Ukrainian forces continue to make strong advances. 20-30 km in last few days alone. Reports say the distance has been regained. Kherson is the most densely populated of the Russian-controlled towns. Most of the town, which had a population of around three lakhs, has now left the country. Eight months into the occupation, Ukrainian forces continue to advance in both the southern and eastern regions. Apart from Kherson, Russia annexed Zaporizhia, Donetsk and Luhansk provinces. In all four, Russian control is not complete.
At the same time, Russia has intensified its offensive in various areas of Ukraine. Ukrainian forces claimed to have shot down Russian missiles aimed at the capital city of Kiev. The city was left in darkness, including the power supply system, which was partially damaged in the attacks. Many civilians were killed. According to reports, Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias, who arrived in Kiev, moved to a shelter to escape the missiles.
In addition to Kyiv, the town of Enerodar also suffered power outages. It is a town near Zaporizhia Nuclear Power Plant. European leaders have announced that they will continue to provide military aid to Ukraine to counter Russian aggression.