https://www.npr.org/2022/03/23/ [login to see] /what-mariupol-means-ukraine-russia-military-campaign
The southeast Ukraine city of Mariupol has been battered by Russian airstrikes in recent weeks. Among the buildings hit have been a maternity hospital, a theater and an arts school. At least 2,000 civilians have died and some 80% of homes have been destroyed, according to city officials. Some 7,000 people were evacuated by convoy from Mariupol on Tuesday.
The result is a harrowing humanitarian crisis as Ukrainians shelter in basements, and safe passage out of the city for civilians is limited and sporadic.
Why is this city so important? There are several reasons — for the Russian military and for the people of Ukraine.