A confrontation between Ukrainian civilians and Russian forces within the city of Konotop ended with a defiant message from the city’s mayor and — in response to the Ukrainian aspect — an settlement to protect peace.
Konotop is a small city within the northeastern area of Sumy.
Social media video verified by CNN exhibits a Russian delegation rising from metropolis corridor to be confronted by an offended crowd. One of many Russians seems to carry up two hand grenades as he returns to his car, whereas onlookers shout abuse and jostle the Russians, chanting “disgrace.”
His car and a Russian infantry combating car then left.
The Sumy regional authorities reported that “in Konotop, the invaders got here to barter with metropolis authorities. In line with Mayor Artem Semenikhin, the Russian army got here out and advised him to give up town. They threatened to fireplace artillery on town.”
However the mayor “explicitly defied threats,” the authorities mentioned.
Video of the mayor addressing a crowd confirmed him saying: “They’re giving me these phrases now: If we begin resisting, they may shell town with artillery. For those who vote for it, we’ll struggle again! Who votes to struggle again?”
There’s a shout of approval, whereas some within the crowd mentioned girls and youngsters must be evacuated.
“I am voting for combating again. However the resolution must be taken by everybody, as a result of the artillery is geared toward us,” he mentioned.
Later, Dmytro Zhyvytsky, head of Sumy area army administration, mentioned an association had been reached with the Russians.
“The dialog between my consultant from the army administration and Russians in Konotop lasted about 12 minutes,” Zhyvytsky mentioned.
“The settlement is as follows: There will be no query of any change of presidency. They’re eager about legislation and order. There gained’t be any motion of troops. The Ukrainian flag is as an alternative,” he mentioned.
“There’s an settlement that we are going to not shoot and there can be no mutual provocations. They continue to be of their positions. Unobstructed passage of public transport and companies, ambulances, automobiles with meals, humanitarian items can be offered,” he continued.
“To make sure safety within the metropolis and management, our volunteers will moreover construct checkpoints in Konotop,” he mentioned.
There was no phrase from the Russian aspect about such an settlement.
Throughout Ukraine, there have been a number of cases of civil disobedience within the face of the Russian advance, with civilians blocking roads, standing in entrance of tanks and confronting Russian troopers.
