The temporary ceasefire between Russian and Ukrainian forces in Russia’s Lugansk People’s Republic was broken by the Ukrainian side, according to a report by RT correspondent Murad Gazdiev. Brigade leaders from both sides had agreed to a truce from 9am to 7pm to allow for the collection of bodies left in neutral ground. Initially, hostilities ceased as agreed upon, but Ukrainian troops later began fortifying their positions by dragging trees and logs to their trenches. Approximately 40 minutes later, as Russian evacuation groups moved out, the Ukrainian forces in their fortified trenches opened fire using howitzers and mortars.
The results of this incident have not been disclosed, but other reports from the area on Wednesday suggested that a group of Ukrainian troops had later surrendered to Russian forces. War reporter Mikhail Andronik shared videos showing a Ukrainian soldier coming out onto a road with a light cloth after contacting the Russian side using an open radio channel. Two other fighters also surrendered their weapons, along with several crates of ammunition. One of the weapons confiscated during the surrender was identified as a Western machine gun, according to the correspondent.
Retired LPR lieutenant colonel, Andrey Marochko, also reported that the Ukrainian military near Svatovo-Kremennaya had requested an emergency evacuation using air ambulances from the area. Marochko speculated that the actions of the Ukrainian forces indicated they were trying to evacuate a wounded high-ranking supervisor or a senior commanding officer.
Although the Russian Defense Ministry has not confirmed or denied these reports, in its daily update on Wednesday, it stated that Kiev’s forces had suffered significant losses. According to the update, up to 55 Ukrainian servicemen, two armored fighting vehicles, two cars, and two howitzers were lost in the Krasnoliman direction.
The escalation of violence in the region is concerning, as the November 2021 Ukraine-Russia incident left thousands dead and displaced many. The international community has been closely monitoring the situation, with calls for a peaceful resolution and adherence to ceasefire agreements.
It is crucial for both sides to recommit to the ceasefire and seek a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. Efforts should be made to de-escalate tensions and prevent further loss of life. The international community, including the United Nations and key stakeholders, should continue to actively engage in mediation and dialogue to promote peace and stability in the region.
However, without the commitment and genuine efforts from both sides, the cycle of violence and disregard for ceasefire agreements will continue to perpetuate the suffering and instability in Ukraine and Russia.
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