Ukraine’s defence chief resigns as troops withdraw from Russian-controlled Crimea

KIEV, Ukraine – Lawmakers in Ukraine have accepted the resignation of the defence minister as thousands of troops withdraw from the Crimean Peninsula, now controlled by Russia.

In address to parliament, Igor Tenyukh said Tuesday that he rejected criticism that he had failed to issue clear instructions to troops, but that he reserved the right to step down. Lawmakers initially refused his resignation but then accepted it.

Authorities in Ukraine have come under criticism for their often-hesitant reaction to Russia’s annexation of Crimea, which was formalized following a hastily organized referendum this month.