Ukraine forces heavily bombard Donetsk
Iran Press TV
Thu Aug 14, 2014 11:21AM GMT
Ukraine's government forces have heavily bombarded the restive eastern city of Donetsk despite pro-Russians' announcement of readiness for a ceasefire.
Injuries have been reported following the Thursday shelling in Donetsk, which is known to be the stronghold of pro-Russia forces in Ukraine.
The Kiev government forces also shelled the city on Wednesday night with local residents saying their homes have been heavily damaged.
The besieged fighters in Donetsk have voiced their readiness for a ceasefire to prevent a humanitarian disaster in the area. However, the Ukrainian government has rejected their call.
Meanwhile, a Russian aid convoy destined for eastern Ukraine was reported back on track despite Kiev's warning that it will not let the convoy enter its territory.
Russia has agreed to deliver the aid to a Ukraine government-controlled crossing in Kharkiv region, where it could be inspected by the Red Cross.
The United Nations said on Wednesday that the number of people killed in eastern Ukraine has nearly doubled over the past two weeks.
Cecile Pouilly, a spokeswoman for the UN human rights office, said figures show the death toll has now passed 2,086, up from 1,129, which was recorded on July 26.
Ukraine's mainly Russian-speaking regions in the east have witnessed deadly clashes between pro-Russia protesters and the Ukrainian army since the government in Kiev launched military operations to silence pro-Russians.
According to the United Nations, nearly 300,000 people have been forced to flee their homes due to fierce fighting in eastern Ukraine.
The Ukrainian army is also trying to take control of the eastern city of Luhansk, where the living conditions have sharply deteriorated.
KA/HSN/SL
|
NEWSLETTER
|
| Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list |
|
|
|
