The Azovstal steel plant still “holds”, despite relentless attacks from Russian forces, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said, writes CNN.

“Despite all the statements by Russian officials that Mariupol is under their full control, this is not true. Azovstal, the stronghold - the last stronghold of Ukrainian resistance in Mariupol - still holds”, - tweeted Kuleba.

In an interview with Radio Svoboda, Ukrainian parliament member David Arakhamia confirmed that Russian troops have already reached the premises of the Azovstal steel plant. He also confirmed that Ukrainian authorities had managed to regain communications with Ukrainian fighters at Azovstal after losing touch with them earlier on Wednesday.

The soldiers and civilians still in Azovstal continue to suffer “endless attacks” from Russian forces, Kuleba said, stressing that the sustained artillery fire and aerial bombardment are putting their lives at risk.