Last minute: The whole world was locked in the peace talks that took place in Istanbul yesterday. After the critical meetings of the Russian and Ukrainian delegations, positive messages came from both sides, and the Russian army decided to reduce its operations in the Kyiv and Chernihiv regions.
UKRAINE: Russian troops are withdrawing, but this is a hoax.
The Ukrainian General Staff, on the other hand, said in a statement that the withdrawal of Russian troops was most likely a hoax. In the daily update shared on Facebook, it was stated that Russian troops continued to move away from Kyiv and Chernihiv. Russia had announced that operations would focus on the eastern Donbas region. However, Ukraine’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said the withdrawals were “probably troop rotation” and were intended to deceive the Ukrainian Army as to where they would be deployed.
PENTAGON: THE THREAT CONTINUES FOR Kyiv
The Pentagon Spokesman of the US Department of Defense, John Kirby, also said that the threat to Kiev continued despite the Russian troops moving away from the city.
In the update, it was also emphasized that the Russian troops continued to fire and attack in Donestk. It was stated that Russian forces strengthened their positions and made mines in Novokarlivka and Luhivske.
ZELENSKIY: ‘It’s TOO Early TO TALK ABOUT SECURITY’
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, arguing that the Russian army has begun to withdraw, stated that he is continuing diplomatic talks with the leaders of many countries.
Zelenskiy said, “The invaders have been driven away from Irpin. They are moving away from Kiev. But it is too early to talk about security in this part of our region. The conflict continues. Russian troops control north of Kiev. It has resources and manpower. Damaged units regenerate. Even the loss of 90 percent does not stop them,” he said. Referring to the situation in Mariupol, Zelenskiy said, “As of today, 143 children are known to have died in Mariupol. Mariupol continues to resist,” he said.