Kyiv Security Service intercepts reveal Putin personally ordered 'looting' Ukraine: Report

In a massive revelation, Ukraine Security Services (SBU) on Monday published intercepts of calls from an unnamed Russian troop who confirms that Vlimir Putin "personally ordered looting of Ukraine." recording of telephonic conversation was released on SBU's Facebook page. According to Ukrinform reports, source of call was a Russian inver in Ukraine, who was speaking to his wife.

"That is, in short, it is not criminally punishable that we loot. This is allowed. Putin allowed it. decree stated that looting was allowed," said source, who is believed to be a Russian soldier stationed in Ukraine. "So he me his business plan, he wants to steal military equipment. After all, y have to buy uniforms for special operation mselves," SBU quoted source of voice in intercept.

This comes after several reports emerged beginning in late February, suggesting that Russian invers were stealing and attempting to sell personal property in Ukraine. An investigative report by Mediazona in May claimed that Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine have sent at least 58 metric tonnes of looted goods since launch of invasion. Russian troops also allegedly looted priceless artefacts from museums in Melitopol, RFERL reported. Besides, y also robbed literally everything y could lay ir hands on, including apparel and home appliances from Bucha, Ukraine Prosecutor General's office h said in a post on Telegram earlier this month. 

Zelenskyy awaits EU decision on Ukraine's candidacy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy earlier declared that a “historic week” began on Monday as war-torn nation would hear answer from European Union (EU) on its candidate status. As Russia-Ukraine war continues unabated, Zelenskyy said in his nightly dress on Sunday that upcoming week will be “most important since 1991” referring to decision awaited from Brussels regarding Ukraine’s EU candidate status.

"Tomorrow a historic week begins. One of most important since 1991. A week when we will hear answer from European Union on candidate status for Ukraine. And in such a week, we should expect greater hostile activity from Russia...Purposefully - demonstratively. And not only against Ukraine, but also against Europe. We are preparing. We warn partners. And we are grateful to everyone whose strength today means our victory tomorrow,” Zelenskyy said during his usual nightly dress.

He went on to say that Ukraine's EU accession “meets interests of whole of Europe” and suggested that Russian forces are expected to intensify attacks. According to Zelenskyy, Russia would ramp up “hostile” activities not only against Ukraine but also Europe. It is to mention here that a referendum on Act of Declaration of Independence was held in Ukraine on 1 December 1991.

(Image: AP)