Russian forces ‘tighten noose’ as brutal fighting rages inside Mariupol
Battle for Mariupol: Chaos and Desperation
The Russian Defence Ministry says it’s “tightening the noose” around Mariupol, claiming heavy fighting is raging against “nationalists” inside the city. Mayor Vadym Boichenko confirmed to the BBC that the clashes are “really active.”
Thousands fled Mariupol last week after weeks of relentless bombardment, leaving food and water scarce. Despite this, about 200,000 people remain trapped, desperately needing rescue.
One of the worst hits came when a theatre sheltering civilians was destroyed by an airstrike. Around 1,300 people are believed still trapped under the rubble, according to human rights commissioner Liudmyla Denisova. So far, only 130 survivors have been pulled to safety.
Zelenskyy Demands Urgent Peace Talks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Moscow to “engage in further peace talks without delay” as the war drags into its fourth week.
“This is the only chance for Russia to reduce the damage from its own mistakes. It’s time to meet, to talk, to restore Ukraine’s territorial integrity and justice,” Zelenskyy said in his daily video address. “Otherwise, Russia’s losses will take generations to recover.”
So far, talks have been held in Belarus and via video calls but have failed to yield a ceasefire or Russian withdrawal.
Russian General Killed, Frontline Stalemate
Ukraine’s military announced the death of Lieutenant General Andrei Mordvichev, commander of Russia’s 8th Combined Arms Army. He died in an artillery strike in Chernobayevka, Ukraine.
Despite intense clashes, Ukraine’s frontline has seen little movement in the past 24 hours. However, Ukrainian forces say they destroyed multiple Russian troop columns in Mykolaiv and Sumy regions.
Ukrainian Air Defences Pummel Russian Forces
Ukraine’s Armed Forces claimed they shot down at least 12 Russian air targets including two planes, three helicopters, three drones, and four cruise missiles.
Local sources say Ukrainian strikes hit the Chornobaivka airfield for the sixth time — a key base for the Russian fleet and a thorn in their side.
