Reuters: Russia demands Ukrainian forces lay down arms in Mariupol
LONDON: Russia on Sunday (Mar 20) called on Ukrainian forces to lay down their arms in the eastern port city of Mariupol where Moscow said a "terrible humanitarian catastrophe" was unfolding.
"Lay down your arms," Colonel-General Mikhail Mizintsev, the director of the Russian National Center for Defense Management, said in a briefing distributed by the defence ministry.
"A terrible humanitarian catastrophe has developed," Mizintsev said. "All who lay down their arms are guaranteed safe passage out of Mariupol."
Mariupol has suffered some of the heaviest bombardment since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb 24. Many of its 400,000 residents remain trapped in the city with little if any food, water and power.
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Russia Issues Ultimatum To Mariupol To Surrender By 5am Moscow Time. Kyiv Says ‘No Question’ Of Surrender
Russia demands Mariupol lay down arms but Ukraine says no -- AP
Russia demands Ukrainian forces lay down arms in Mariupol as shells kill at least one in Kyiv -- ABC News Australia
Russia calls for Mariupol surrender, citing 'terrible humanitarian catastrophe' -- The Hill
Kyiv says ‘no question’ of surrender in Mariupol after Russia sets 5am deadline -- The Guardian
Ukraine refuses Russian demands to lay down arms in Mariupol -- Axios