"Erasing Russian Traces" Kyiv Landmark Begins Renaming Process

Published 17 Apr.2022 19:59(KST)

Updated 09 Mar.2023 12:31(KST)

The message "No War" is written on a street in Saint Petersburg, a city in the northwest of Russia. <br>[Image source=Yonhap News]

The message "No War" is written on a street in Saint Petersburg, a city in the northwest of Russia.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Sumi] The authorities of Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine invaded by Russia, have announced plans to rename landmarks associated with Russia.

On the 16th (local time), according to the American media outlet The Hill, Vitali Klitschko, the mayor of Kyiv, recently submitted a draft decision to the city council via Telegram to rename the "Kyiv-Moscow Friendship Square" to "Mariupol Heroes Square."

This aims to erase traces of friendship between the two countries that remained before the war and rename it in honor of Mariupol, the southeastern Ukrainian port city under Russian attack.

Mayor Klitschko explained that the Kyiv city council has already approved several facility renaming proposals, and the council members supported this plan.

Mayor Klitschko stated, "There are still names related to Russia in Kyiv’s subway stations and streets," and added that the renaming work will be completed by the 9th of next month and then submitted to the city council.

Meanwhile, Russia, which invaded Ukraine, claims to have effectively captured Mariupol and has sent an ultimatum demanding the Ukrainian forces surrender.

On the 17th (local time), according to TASS news agency, Mikhail Mizintsev, commander of the National Defense Management Center under the Russian General Staff, said, "We propose that Ukrainian nationalist units and foreign mercenaries cease hostile actions and lay down their arms," adding, "Those who lay down their arms will be spared." He also claimed that the Ukrainian forces are currently in a desperate situation without water and food.

However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky refuted the claim that Mariupol has fallen, warning that if his forces are eliminated, negotiations will be halted. In a video speech, President Zelensky condemned Russia, saying, "Russia deliberately intends to eliminate everyone in Mariupol," and stated, "Nevertheless, the Ukrainian forces are still holding out."

He also emphasized, "If the threat to remove our troops and soldiers in Mariupol continues, peace negotiations will be suspended," and stressed, "We do not negotiate over our territory and people."