Russia says retreat from key city has begun, but Ukraine remains cautious

Some Western observers, including the highest-ranking US military officer, said they believed the Kremlin’s forces have been forced to pull out — though a full withdrawal could take some time.

(PA)

Ukrainian officials have acknowledged that Russian troops had no choice but to flee a key southern city.

But they stopped short of declaring victory in Kherson, even after Moscow said it began a retreat that would represent a humiliating defeat in the grinding war.