Putin calls on Ukrainian military to seize power

Russian president urges Ukraine armed forces not to allow ‘neo-Nazis to use your children, wives as human shields’

MOSCOW:

Russian President Vladimir Putin called on the Ukrainian military to seize power in their country on Friday, a day after Moscow launched an invasion of its southern neighbour.

"I once again appeal to the military personnel of the armed forces of Ukraine: do not allow neo-Nazis and (Ukrainian radical nationalists) to use your children, wives and elders as human shields," Putin said at a televised meeting with Russia's security council.

"Take power into your own hands, it will be easier for us to reach agreement."

Putin added that Russian servicemen in Ukraine were acting "bravely, professionally and heroically".

Also read: Nearly 120 Ukrainian military targets hit as Russian forces drive on Kyiv

US officials believe Russia's initial aim is to topple President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and "decapitate" his government. Zelenskiy said he knew he was "the number one target" but would stay in Kyiv.

An adviser to Zelenskiy said Ukraine was prepared for talks with Russia, including on staying neutral, one of Moscow's pre-war demands. But Lavrov said no talks could be held until Ukraine's military laid down its arms.

Putin says Ukraine is an illegitimate state carved out of Russia, a view Ukrainians see as aimed at erasing their more than thousand-year history.

Putin says he does not plan a military occupation, only to disarm Ukraine and remove its leaders. But it is not clear how a pro-Russian leader could be installed unless troops control much of the country. Russia has floated no name of such a figure.