Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned civilians in the occupied territories against mobilization by the Russian army. “At least hide from the Russian mobilization. Avoid convocations,” Zelenskyy said in his daily video address on Friday. Those already drafted into the Russian army should sabotage their activities and report to Kiev and then flee as soon as possible, he added.
According to him, since the start of the offensive, the Ukrainian army has recaptured 9,000 square kilometers and liberated 400 cities. He emphasized that this was also possible thanks to the help of the local population. The advance strengthened Kiev’s position at the UN General Assembly. “Ukraine has shown that not only is the truth with us, but also strength,” Zelenskyy said. He praised the performance of the Ukrainian delegation in New York as the most successful in the history of Ukraine.
Zelenskyj speaks of “pseudo-referendums”
He also criticized the fake referendums in the Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine. The world unequivocally condemned these “pseudo-referendums,” Zelensky said. He spoke about crimes against Ukrainian law and international law. In the regions of Kherson, Donetsk, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhya, the Russian occupier is voting on joining Russia. These are not recognized internationally as they conflict with democratic norms.
Biden threatens Russia with further sanctions
US President Joe Biden has threatened Russia with severe sanctions in the event of annexations after the “referendums” in Russian-controlled areas in Ukraine. “The Russian referendums are a sham — a pretext to try to annex parts of Ukraine by force in a flagrant violation of international law,” Biden said Friday.
The US would work with its allies and partners to ensure further “quick and tough” economic measures against Russia in this case, Biden said in the statement.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
