Desperate citizens are racing to save their lives in Irpin, Ukraine, as Russian forces lay siege to the city on the outskirts of the capital Kyiv and launch a fierce offensive. Those who fled their homes left behind their belongings as the enemy knocked on the city’s doors.
Russia was attacked continuously on the 13th day of the war between the two neighboring countries in the Buka district of Irpin. Amidst a barrage of missiles and further pressure from Russian forces, Ukrainian defense forces blew up a bridge connecting this strategic suburb with Kyiv.
The destruction of the concrete bridge has slowed the advance of Russian troops, but the residents of Irpin are terrified. According to the governor of Kyiv Oblast, supplies are running low, and they have been without electricity, water and heat for four days.
Read | Even after 13 days, Ukraine still holds resistance against Russia. This way
Evacuations take place in a brief window when Russian forces halt their attacks. Ordinary citizens – mostly women and children – were seen leaving their property and taking only what was necessary.
From a child’s bicycle to an elderly walker, various household items lie out in the open on the streets of the city as people go out in frenzy. Several homes and commercial buildings were damaged in the shelling.
#Unique , Ukraine’s Irpin ready for Russian lead; Heavy barricading on the borders. India Today @GauravCSavant We get this report from ground zero. #RussiaUkraine war #UkraineRussia war #Russia #Ukraine #itvideos pic.twitter.com/tPlgVB4oeP
— India Today (@IndiaToday) 8 March 2022
eyewitness account
India Today’s Gaurav Sawant spoke to Victoria, a resident of Irpin, who was trying to leave the border suburb before the Russian army took over the city. He said he had no house to hide inside – it was destroyed in the bombing.
“Many people in my neighborhood are stranded because homes are surrounded by Russian forces. They are too afraid to leave their homes, ”said Victoria.
Read | Video from Ukraine shows people being evacuated in safe corridor
The UN Human Rights Office said it had confirmed 1,335 civilian casualties in Ukraine, including 474 killed and 861 wounded, since the invasion began on February 24. But the actual toll was likely to be higher, it said.
heavy defense
In the Siege of Irpin, the Ukrainian army and civilian volunteers are fiercely resisting the attacking Russian forces. They know that if they let the enemy go, the road will lead them straight to Kyiv.
Anti-tank guided missiles and surface-to-surface projectiles, along with military men, are stationed at the entrance to defend the city.
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