Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko has said that fierce battles were taking place near the capital, noting that Russian troops were destroying the cities in Kyiv region – Bucha, Hostomel, Vorzel and Irpin, and deliberately targetting civilians.

"Fierce battles are going on near Kyiv. The enemy is destroying Bucha, Hostomel, Vorzel, Irpin with particular fury. They deliberately are killing civilians. The chairman of Hostomel merged territorial community, Yuriy Prylypko, died when he was distributing bread and medicine to people. This is my colleague, whom I know well from is work with Association of Cities. Blessed memory!" Klitschko said in a video message published on his Telegram channel.

Klitschko also noted that the capital is sending humanitarian aid to other cities of Ukraine.

"Kyiv has sent humanitarian aid to Chernihiv. We are trying to deliver it to Bucha and Hostomel. We are forming humanitarian supplies to some other cities. The capital is preparing for defense. I ask all Kyivans to remain calm. Stay at home or - in case of an alarm - in shelters. Kyiv will stand! We will stand together! Glory to Ukraine!" he said.