By John Ikani
The Government of Ukraine has assured Russian soldiers of money and immunity from punishment if they surrender.
Announcing the amnesty move via Facebook, Defence Minister Oleksii Resnikov said any Russian soldier who surrenders will be offered the equivalent of more than $40,000.
The campaign was reportedly being financed by the international IT industry.
“Make your decision. Come out without weapon with a white flag,” Defence Minister Resnikov wrote on Facebook.
“Anyone who refuses to be an occupationist will bring peace. For those who choose the path of the occupationist there will be no mercy!” said Resnikov.
Meanwhile Ministry of Defence in Kiev claims that more than 5,700 Russian soldiers had been killed, while at least 200 Russian soldiers have been captured so far.
It added that some 29 aircraft, 29 helicopters and 198 Russian tanks have been destroyed.
Russia attacked the neighbouring country on February 24, without declaring war.
According to the UN, more than 400 civilians have already been killed.
The Russian army had already fired at least 113 ballistic missiles at Ukraine, according to Ukrainian sources, but Moscow vehemently denies attacking Ukrainian civilians.
