The remaining Ukrainian soldiers barricaded themselves there. Many civilians also reportedly fled the area. A passage for women, children and other civilians outside Azovstal must be created quickly, says Vereshchuk.
No deal on monday
On Monday, as the day before, there were no escape corridors for civilians in the contested areas. “Due to security considerations, the decision was taken today not to open any humanitarian corridors,” Vereshchuk said earlier.
The situation in Mariupol is “extremely difficult”, Defense Ministry spokesman Olexander Motusyanyk said. However, the port city is still not completely in Russian hands. He goes on to say that Russian air strikes have increased by more than 50%. Increasingly, parts of the infrastructure are being targeted by attacks.