Russia declares temporary ceasefire, to enable civillians flee Ukraine
In Mariupol, according to Al Jazeera, local officials said the evacuation had been put on hold, accusing Russian forces of ceasefire violations. Russia’s defence ministry said Ukrainian “nationalists” prevented civilians from leaving.
Russian forces have reportedly declared a ceasefire to allow humanitarian corridors out of the Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha.
Russia’s Ministry of Defense announced it would stop its bombardment of parts of Ukraine on Saturday, to allow for civilians to safely flee.
“Today, March 5, from 10 a.m. Moscow time, the Russian side declares a ceasefire regime and opens humanitarian corridors for the exit of civilians from Mariupol and Volnovakha,” said the ministry in a statement. “Humanitarian corridors and exit routes have been agreed with the Ukrainian side,” CNN reported citing CNN report.
In Mariupol, according to Al Jazeera, local officials said the evacuation had been put on hold, accusing Russian forces of ceasefire violations. Russia’s defence ministry said Ukrainian “nationalists” prevented civilians from leaving.
Multiple news outlets said they would pause their work inside Russia, citing a new law that could mean jail for those found to be intentionally spreading “fake” news.
Russia said it was blocking Facebook and restricting access to Twitter, citing restrictions on Russian media.
More than 1.2 million people have fled Ukraine to neighbouring countries, according to the United Nations.
