Flicker of normal life returns to Kyiv as kids play in parks surrounded by spring flowers

A FLICKER of normal life has returned to Kyiv as children played in parks surrounded by spring flowers. Families made the most of the sunshine with mums pushing kids on swings while other ­residents walked freely after months of Russian bombardments. A smiling youngster grins for the camera after the turmoil in Ukraine’s capital KyivGetty Families made the most of the sunshine with mums pushing kids on swingsGetty British and western diplomats are also flocking back to the city in a sign it is no longer in grave danger. Tensions eased after Russian forces were forced to retreat in a humiliating defeat last month. But officials told residents to think twice about returning after Moscow warned it would retaliate with more long-range missile strikes. Meanwhile, Kyiv’s Mayor Vitali Klitschko ordered the dismantling of an iconic statue which symbolised Russia’s friendship with Ukraine. The eight-metre bronze sculpture of two workers was erected in 1982. Read More on Ukraine war GOING NUCLEAR WW3 threat SPIKES as Germany sends tanks to Kyiv & Kremlin threatens NATO BY THEIR SIDE UK will send 22 more ambulances plus fire engines to help Ukraine’s hospitals Most read in News COLD PLUNGE Latest weather forecast as Britain to be BLASTED by 'coldest May in 25 years' FIND KATIE Man, 50, held over 'murder' of mum-of-two as officers search woodland 'I JUST FROZE' Tim Westwood ‘victims reveal they felt “dirty” after he performed sex acts’ VLAD HEALTH Putin's hand ‘shakes uncontrollably’ and he looks unsteady as health is quizzed ‘RUTHLESS KILLING’ Dad ‘stabs burglar to death after seeing break in on Ring doorbell’ APOCALYPSE NOW Nuclear WW3 is REAL DANGER & UK arms 'legitimate' targets, says Putin chief Kyiv residents enjoy a beautiful spring day in the park after weeks of Russian attacksGetty