in Mariupol, an imminent final assault is feared

Mariupol (Ukraine), under a deluge of fire, has not yet fallen. Sunday, April 17, Russian soldiers and separatists controlled almost all of the city, but the Ukrainians resisted in the factory of Azovstal, pounded relentlessly. “We are preparing the ground assault, before sending our assault groups as close as possible”comments Pavel, a pro-Russian separatist fighter.

The factory was turned into a fortress by the Ukrainians. The buildings extend over a huge area, and it includes underground passages. All around, Russian armor encircles the area. The Kremlin issued an ultimatum to the Ukrainians, asking them to surrender by midday on Sunday. “The elimination of our soldiers, of our men in Mariupol will put an end to all negotiations”replied the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky.