The first convoy of cars has escaped the port of Mariupol, following 10 days of Ukrainian authorities attempting to get civilians to safety
The southeastern city has been surrounded by Russian troops since day one of Putin’s war.
It is also considered the centre point of Ukraine’s humanitarian crisis, with hundreds of thousands of people sheltering in basements without food or water.
It’s believed at least 2,500 people have died in the city so far as a result of the conflict.
At one o’clock local time, Russia opened a checkpoint… as those with cars and fuels began to depart.
It comes as Ukraine’s Prime Minister tells the Council of Europe that Russia’s lies and propaganda need to be stopped.
The safe passage of civilians out of Ukraine has been the nation’s top priority as war talks continue.
The United Nations has also pledged an additional 40 million dollars in financial aid to Ukraine.
UN data shows that more than 2.8 million Ukrainians have fled their homes since the invasion began on February 24.
The funds will be used to help get critical supplies of food, water, medicines, and other vital supplies into the country… while providing cash assistance to those in need.
The organisation’s Secretary-General warns this war “goes far beyond Ukraine”…
At an emergency UN Security Council meeting in New York, Ukraine’s ambassador has likened Russia’s invasion on his nation to the actions of former Nazi Germany.
HERE’S WHAT ELSE YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- The first convoy of cars has begun to depart the port city of Mariupol… as Ukraine reports around 2,500 deaths in the region.
- Residents still in the area remain without access to food or water.
- The latest round of talks between Russia and Ukraine have wrapped up… with no breakthroughs reported.
- Russia is continuing its advance towards key cities, including the capital of Kyiv… with one person killed in a Russian strike on apartment blocks within the city.
- Russia is denying claims it has approached China for military assistance… with China also dismissing the claims.
