"Each of us is a warrior": Prisoners released to join fight against Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that imprisoned Ukrainian citizens with “real combat experience” will be released to join the fight against Russia.
Mr Zelensky made the “morally difficult” announcement during an address on Monday (local time), as peace talks between Ukraine and Russia continue.
“Ukrainians with real combat experience will be released from custody and will be able to compensate for their guilt in their hottest spots,” he said in a video posted to Telegram.
“All sanctions against some individuals who participated in the Anti-Terrorist Operation will be lifted. The key thing now is defence.”
The president urged Ukrainians to help protect their country and said Russian troops were fighting “against all living beings”.
“When I went to the presidency, I said that each of us is the president. Because we are all responsible for our country,” Mr Zelensky said.
“For our beautiful Ukraine. And now it has happened that each of us is a warrior. And I am sure that each of us will win.”
Mr Zelensky also called on Russian soldiers to flee and save themselves.
“Don’t trust your commanders, don’t trust your propagandists. Just save your lives,” he urged.
He also used the address to encourage foreign volunteers wanting to join the fight to sign up for an “international brigade” at Ukrainian embassies.
However, Prime Minister Scott Morrison discouraged Ukrainians in Australia from flying over to fight in the conflict.
“At this time, the legality of such actions are uncertain under Australian law,” Mr Morrison said.
Mr Zelensky’s address comes as the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues to meet unexpected resistance.
The President signed a letter formally requesting immediate membership of the European Union, though it could take years for it to become an actuality.
Meanwhile, videos have emerged on social media of residential areas in Kharkiv being shelled.
Authorities said at least seven people had been killed and dozens were injured.
Image: @zelensky_official (Instagram)