Zelensky: More than 7,000 people evacuated from Mariupol on Mar 22
On Tuesday, more than 7,000 civilians were evacuated from Mariupol. About 100,000 people still remain in the besieged city.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said this in his video address, Ukrinform reports.
"As of today, there are about 100,000 people in the city. In inhumane conditions. In a complete blockade. With no food, no water, no medicines. Under constant shelling, under constant bombardment,” he said.
The head of state stressed that Ukraine has been trying to organize humanitarian corridors for Mariupol residents for more than a week, but almost all attempts have been thwarted by Russian invaders - shelling or deliberate terror.
Thus, Zelensky noted that on Tuesday one of the humanitarian columns was simply captured by the Russians on an agreed route near Mangush, and employees of the State Emergency Service and bus drivers were taken prisoner.
"Despite all the difficulties, 7,226 Mariupol residents have been rescued today. Tomorrow we will continue this important work,” the President said.
He also reminded that the Greek Foreign Minister was the first European official to decide to support the work of humanitarian corridors in Mariupol to save people from the city and bring humanitarian aid there.
"We are doing everything we can to free our people and unblock the movement of humanitarian aid. That is why I am grateful when a representative of a high-level European state agrees to personally accompany the humanitarian mission. We expect the implementation of this plan by the Greek Foreign Ministry in the coming days," Zelensky added.
As reported, Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias stated about intentions to personally accompany humanitarian aid heading to of Mariupol, asking Russia not to obstruct the delivery.
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