Mariupol defense operation not for public discussion - commander

This was stated by Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, General Valerii Zaluzhnyi on Facebook, Ukrinform reports.

"The defense of Mariupol continues. Communication with the units of the defense forces, which are heroically fighting in the city, is stable and constantly maintained. I stress that the conduct of defense operations is not a topic for public discussion," wrote Zaluzhnyi.

The commander stressed that the Ukrainian forces do "everything possible and beyond to win and preserve the lives of soldiers and civilians in all areas," and called to keep faith in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

As reported, earlier appeals were made by the Azov Regiment and Marines about the difficult situation in Mariupol, where Russian aggression had caused one of the largest humanitarian disasters. The invaders have been bombarding unarmed residents and blocking incoming humanitarian aid.

Servicemen with the Azov Regiment and Marines remain in Mariupol, continuing to defend the city.