Ukraine deploying MLRS, artillery, mortars within urban blocks, near schools, kindergartens - Shoigu

MOSCOW. March 1 (Interfax) - Ukrainian forces have been deploying multiple rocket launchers, artillery systems, and large-caliber mortars within residential blocks, near schools and kindergartens, and is using civilians as human shields, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said.

"Amid the armed clashes, the Ukrainian side is not abstaining from using civilians as human shields. Multiple rocket launchers, artillery guns, and large-caliber mortars have been deployed within residential blocks and near schools and kindergartens," Shoigu said at a teleconference on Tuesday.

He thanked the Russian Armed Forces personnel "for courage and heroism, for conscientiously and professionally performing their duties."