Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky
Highlight
- Zelensky tells the mothers of Russian soldiers to stop their sons from being captured/killed in Ukraine.
- His message came on the 17th day of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
- Thousands of civilians and soldiers from both sides are believed to have died in the invasion.
As the Russian invasion of Ukraine enters its 17th day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has a new message. This is for the mothers of Russian soldiers.
In a video released on Telegram, Zelensky called on mothers of Russian soldiers to “act immediately” and prevent their sons from being captured or killed in Ukraine.
He told mothers, “Don’t send your children to war abroad. Check where your son is. And if you have the slightest doubt that your son may be sent to war against Ukraine, act immediately.” ”
The comedian-turned-president, “Ukraine never wanted this terrible war. And Ukraine doesn’t want it. But it will defend as much as it needs.”
Last week, Kyiv invited mothers of Russian soldiers captured on its territory to come and pick up their babies, AFP reported.
Thousands of civilians and soldiers from both sides are believed to have died in the invasion.
For the first time on Friday, Putin approved “volunteer” fighters from Syria and other countries to join Russia’s attack. Russia’s defense minister said “more than 16,000 applications” had come from the Middle East. He said there were many people who fought alongside Russia against the Islamic State group.
Read also: Russia warns sanctions could lead to International Space Station crash