Russian troops capture Antonov airport outside Kyiv

Russia troops have overtaken the Antonov international airport just outside of Kyiv, a CNN reporter on the ground confirms.

Antonov is a cargo airport.

Breaking: @mchancecnn with Russian forces at the Antonov airport about 15 miles outside of Kyiv. "These troops you can see over here, they are Russian airborne forces. They have taken this airport" pic.twitter.com/SnvmwQ1GeA

— Natasha Bertrand (@NatashaBertrand) February 24, 2022

Confirmed by Ukrainian authorities. A large air assault operation with Mi-8 helicopters on Antonov International Airport in Hostomel. Interior Ministry says Russia has seized control. Very dangerous; it’s just 15 minutes west of the capital ring road. pic.twitter.com/JhlyVktVRC

— Christopher Miller (@ChristopherJM) February 24, 2022

Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry says the country’s military has destroyed 74 Ukrainian military facilities, including 11 air bases.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu orders that Ukrainian servicemen be treated “with respect” and those who lay down their weapons be offered safe corridors.

The Russian Defense Ministry also confirms the loss of a Su-25 attack jet due to “pilot error.”

— AP contributed