Vladimir Putin 'Teases' Ukrainian Military To Try To Overthrow Volodymyr Zelensky's Government

JAKARTA - Russian President Vladimir Putin has tried a new maneuver. Speaking from Russia, Putin sent a message to the Ukrainian military, which is battling its own army.

"Take power into your own hands," Putin told the Ukrainian armed forces as quoted by Al Jazeera, Friday, February 25.

That is, Vladimir Putin has asked the Ukrainian military to seize power from the government of President Volodymyr Zelensky.

"I once again appeal to the military personnel of the Ukrainian armed forces: do not allow neo-Nazis and radical Ukrainian nationalists to use your children, wives, and parents as human shields," Putin said at a televised meeting with Russia's security council.

"Take power into your own hands, it will be easier for us to reach an agreement," he added.

Putin's remarks came hours after Zelenskyy urged his country's troops to exercise restraint amid the Russian offensive.

"Stay strong, you are everything we have," Volodymyr Zelensky told troops during a speech.