Ukraine-Russia war latest: Kyiv confirms loss of key eastern town after Pope slams Putin for rejecting truce
Ukraine’s military says its forces have pulled out of the embattled eastern town of Siversk near Bakhmut, weeks after Russia falsely claimed its capture.
“The invaders were able to advance due to a significant numerical advantage and constant pressure from small assault groups in difficult weather conditions,” Ukraine’s General Staff said in a statement.
Siversk had a pre-war population of 10,000, and its capture by Russia puts a dent in the “fortress belt” of major Donbas towns still held by Ukraine.
Russia has continued to push forwards – albeit very slowly – in Ukraine after rejecting an offer of a Christmas truce, and launching a massive drone and missile attack early on Tuesday.
Pope Leo criticised Vladimir Putin’s decision to turn down a ceasefire marking the festive period.
“Among the things that cause me much sadness is that apparently Russia has refused a ceasefire request,” the pope told journalists outside his residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy.
“I will make an appeal one more time to people of good will to respect at least Christmas Day as a day of peace,” he said.
