Putin declares martial law in occupied Ukraine regions including Kherson

Residents of the now Russian-held city waited for their turn on Wednesday to evacuate after Moscow warned of a looming assault. Images of residents holding bags and pets preparing to flee the city were broadcast by Russian media which portrayed the exodus as an attempt to clear the city of civilians before it becomes a combat zone. Meanwhile Russia’s President Vladimir Putin was introducing martial law in four Ukrainian regions - including Kherson - that he says are now part of Russia.