Putin: There Is No Longer Political Leadership in Ukraine, It Is a Criminal Group

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated during a meeting with the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Russia and commanders of the main operational departments that there is no longer political leadership in Ukraine, according to RIA Novosti.

"In my opinion, there is no longer political leadership in Ukraine; it has turned into a criminal group that holds power to enrich itself," said the Russian president.

He also urged Ukrainian servicemen to cease resistance and surrender according to international humanitarian norms.