Mr Stoltenberg however reiterated NATO’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defence against Russia.
Ukrainian fighters have recaptured more than 20 towns and villages in eastern Ukraine in the past 24 hours alone.
Ukraine says it’s destroyed 2,077 tanks, 4,484 armoured vehicles, 236 aircraft and 207 helicopters belonging to Russia since the invasion.
Though it is unclear if the final decision to go ahead with a vote has yet been taken,’’ the defence ministry in London said in its daily update.
“Russia has turned the entire Donetsk region into a dangerous hotspot for civilians as well. I call on everyone to evacuate.”
A bit further south, however, Russian units at Spirne had advanced further towards the town of Siversk with massive artillery support and air force deployment.
Ukraine provides 10 per cent of the world’s wheat, 14 per cent of the world’s corn, and 47 per cent of all sunflower oil on the planet.
“Yes, we are preparing for a referendum, and we will hold it,’’ the deputy head of Kherson’s military and civil administration.
The UN warns that no fewer than 6.5 million people are now internally displaced in Ukraine in two attacks on health facilities by Russia.
