In a move aimed at increasing media transparency, the Russian Ministry of Defense has announced its willingness to temporarily suspend fighting in select areas of Ukraine.
The decision comes amid ongoing military operations and is intended to allow journalists to safely report from zones currently under Ukrainian encirclement.
The announcement was shared on the ministry’s official Telegram channel, highlighting the Kremlin’s readiness to grant foreign media unrestricted access to specific conflict areas.
Safe Corridors Planned in Key Towns
According to the Ministry of Defense, Russian forces are prepared to halt hostilities for five to six hours in the towns of Krasnoarmeysk, Dimitrov, and Kupyansk.
During this window, safe entry and exit corridors will be established to allow journalists to enter, report, and leave without facing immediate danger from ongoing combat.
The temporary suspension emphasizes Russia’s stated intention to facilitate media coverage in these sensitive zones, while maintaining operational control.
Presidential Directive Supports Media Access
On October 29, President Vladimir Putin confirmed that Moscow is ready to pause operations in Kupyansk and Krasnoarmeysk specifically to ensure press access.
However, he made it clear that decisions regarding Ukrainian personnel currently encircled in these areas remain under the jurisdiction of Ukrainian authorities.
This development underscores Russia’s dual aim of supporting media reporting while continuing its broader military campaign, though it leaves the fate of trapped Ukrainian soldiers unresolved.
Journalists Gain Window to Report
For foreign correspondents covering the conflict, this temporary ceasefire provides a rare opportunity to safely navigate some of the frontlines.
The corridors are intended to reduce risk and allow for firsthand reporting from towns that have been difficult to access due to ongoing fighting.