Amidst Russian progression in eastern Ukraine, numerous residents are evacuating settlements close to the frontier.
Due to Russia's progression in eastern Ukraine, numerous individuals from nearby settlements have chosen to vacate. Living in the village of Myrnohrad, which sits merely 10 kilometers from the battlegrounds, locals spoke to AFP about the escalating Russian attacks forcing multiple individuals to abandon their homes. AFP journalists observed several houses in Myrnohrad burst into flames post-Russian assaults.
Miners like Maxim, 40, discussed his decision to depart, stating, "The situation's just going from bad to worse, quicker than bad to worse. Every day, every hour, like an avalanche." A recent rocket strike impacted his nine-story residence; thankfully, he was away at the time. "Grateful I wasn't there, but life is valuable, so I'm leaving."
Seventy-four-year-old Galina same-day journeyed from Myrnohrad to the heart of Ukraine, further away from the frontline. "My family and I rented a small, one-room apartment, which we'll make do with," she told AFP reporters. "Feel sympathy for the kids," said Galina. She also mentioned that several generations of her family had previously moved away.
Russian forces have been steadily infiltrating eastern Ukraine for several weeks, aiming for the city of Pokrovsk, considered a crucial logistics center. Situated approximately 60 kilometers northeast of Donetsk, a city under Russian occupation, the Russian army declared further advances in the area on Wednesday, affirming they had captured the village of Schelanne around 20 kilometers from Pokrovsk.
Local authorities in Myrnohrad have been advising residents to evacuate due to the increasing danger from Russian attacks. Urged by these warnings, many locals, like Galina, have relocated to safer areas within Ukraine.
