Putin accuses Ukraine of causing humanitarian crisis in Alyoshky

Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of creating a humanitarian catastrophe in the town of Alyoshky by mining approaches to it, announcing a humanitarian operation there will take place "today or tomorrow." Speaking at the Russia-Africa summit plenary session, Putin said the operation is planned with the support of the US First Lady and that the situation had been developing for a long time. He declined to detail the opposing side's actions but reiterated the mining accusation. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said a plane has already departed from Moscow to deliver aid, with demining underway. He expressed hope residents will receive assistance and be able to leave the town safely by Friday.