February 2015 - Ukraine Special Weapons News

Rebels Withdraw Heavy Arms in Eastern Ukraine VOA 28 Feb 2015 -- Russian-backed rebels in eastern Ukraine continued withdrawing tanks and other military vehicles Saturday from the front lines, obeying a cease-fire reached in mid-February.
Poroshenko: Nemtsov Killed Over Plan To Reveal Moscow Links To Ukraine Conflict RFE/RL 28 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko says Russian opposition politician and Kremlin critic Boris Nemtsov was killed because he was going to reveal evidence of Moscow's involvement in the separatist conflict in eastern Ukraine.
Kiev's Withdrawal of Heavy Arms Conducted Without OSCE Monitors – Donetsk Sputnik 28 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian forces withdrew 15 percent of heavy weaponry from the line of contact in Donbas, the deputy commander of the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) forces said Saturday.
Luhansk Withdraws 80% of Heavy Weaponry From Line of Contact Sputnik 28 Feb 2015 -- The self-proclaimed Luhansk People's Republic (LPR) has withdrawn 80 percent of its heavy weaponry from the line of contact, the republic's press center announced Saturday.
No salary rise due to east Ukraine military operation: PM Iran Press TV 28 Feb 2015 -- The Ukrainian prime minister says the costs of military operations in the country's volatile east have made it impossible for the Kiev officials to increase salaries and pensions.
Poroshenko: Heavy Weapons to Return to Front Lines if Truce Breached VOA 27 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said his military is ready to return its heavy weapons to the front lines in eastern Ukraine, noting that Russian-backed rebels are still violating a cease-fire deal reached earlier this month.
Fighting kills 3 Ukrainian forces in 24 hours Iran Press TV 27 Feb 2015 -- Three Ukrainian soldiers have been killed in fighting with pro-Russia forces in eastern Ukraine in the past 24 hours, a military spokesman says.
OSCE Chief Urges All Conflict Sides to Continue Minsk Peace Deal Observance Sputnik 27 Feb 2015 -- OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Serbia's Foreign Minister Ivica Dačić urged Friday all sides of the Ukrainian conflict to fulfill in good faith their obligations under the recent Minsk peace agreements.
Donetsk Forces Pull Out Majority of Heavy Arms From Separation Line Sputnik 27 Feb 2015 -- Donbas forces have pulled out a total of 17 artillery units from the separation line with Kiev-led forces under the recent Minsk peace plan, the deputy commander of the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) forces said Friday.
Ukraine's Not-So-Real Deal With UAE: Officials Deny Weapons Supplies Sputnik 27 Feb 2015 -- The military cooperation agreement between Abu Dhabi and Kiev does not envisage UAE weapon supplies to Ukraine, the UAE Assistant Foreign Minister for Security and Military Affairs said on Friday.
Russia's 16th Humanitarian Convoy Delivers Aid to Donetsk, Luhansk Sputnik 27 Feb 2015 -- The 16th humanitarian convoy from the Russian Emergencies Ministry has delivered aid to the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics on Friday, an official told RIA Novosti.
Canada Considers Sending Troops to Ukraine Sputnik 26 Feb 2015 -- Canadian Defense Minister Jason Kenney announced on Wednesday that Prime Minister Harper's administration is seriously considering taking part in US-led training missions in Ukraine. Kenney said Canadian efforts would focus primarily on battlefield medical training.
Warsaw May Send Military Instructor Mission to Ukraine Sputnik 26 Feb 2015 -- Poland may send a formal mission of up to 100 instructors to Ukraine to train junior officers, Polish Defense Minister Tomasz Siemoniak said Thursday.
US Unable to Deliver Arms to Ukraine Fast Enough to Change Situation Sputnik 26 Feb 2015 -- The United States is not able to deliver sufficient lethal defensive aid to Ukraine in a time-frame that would affect the military conditions on the ground, Director of the US Defense Intelligence Agency Lieutenant General Vincent Stewart told members of Congress on Thursday.
Russia Says Sanctions Threats Aimed To Whip Up Hysteria RFE/RL 26 Feb 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov lashed out at U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and other Western officials on February 26 over threats to impose further sanctions against Moscow if it does not alter its conduct in Ukraine.
Russia Slams West Over Ukraine Sanction Threats VOA 26 Feb 2015 -- Russia warned Western countries against imposing more sanctions on Moscow, saying such threats show the West is opposed to following through on a truce for eastern Ukraine.
Kerry accuses Putin of 'destabilizing' Ukraine Iran Press TV 26 Feb 2015 -- The United States has accused Russia once more of 'destabilizing' Ukraine and warned of additional sanctions if Moscow fails to meet the terms of a recent ceasefire agreement.
West unwilling to facilitate peace in Ukraine: Russian FM Iran Press TV 26 Feb 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says the threats by Western countries to impose new sanctions on Moscow over the Ukrainian crisis are indicative of their reluctance to facilitate peace in east Ukraine.
Purportedly Leaked Document 'Shows Kremlin Had Advance Plan To Seize Crimea' RFE/RL 26 Feb 2015 -- The Russian daily newspaper Novaya Gazeta has published a plan - allegedly given to the Kremlin two weeks before President Viktor Yanukovych was ousted last year - calling for Russia to 'foment separatism' in eastern Ukraine and seize Crimea.
Kiev says started withdrawing weapons from eastern Ukraine Iran Press TV 26 Feb 2015 -- Kiev says it has started the withdrawal of heavy weapons from the frontline of conflict in eastern Ukraine as part of the Minsk ceasefire deal with pro-Russia forces.
Ukraine 'Starting To Withdraw Weapons' From Front Line RFE/RL 26 Feb 2015 -- The Ukrainian military said it was starting to withdraw heavy weapons from the front line in its conflict with Russian-backed rebels on February 26 after reporting that there were no combat fatalities for a second straight 24-hour period.
Donetsk Withdraws 90% of Heavy Weaponry From Line Of Contact – DPR Leader Sputnik 26 Feb 2015 -- The self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) has withdrawn 90 percent of its heavy weaponry from the line of contact in eastern Ukraine, DPR leader Alexander Zakharchenko said Thursday.
US General: No Red Line in Ukraine to Trigger NATO Response VOA 25 Feb 2015 -- The top U.S. general in Europe has indicated there is no red line that Russia can cross that would lead NATO to step in and help Ukraine militarily.
Sanctions Having a Mixed Effect on Russia, Officials Say AFPS 25 Feb 2015 -- U.S. and European sanctions imposed on Russia for its support of Ukrainian separatists and the annexation of Crimea are having a significant impact on Russia's economy but have not curtailed Moscow's continued intervention in the region, two senior Defense Department officials told Congress today.
Putin: Gas Cuts To Europe Possible, Kyiv's Gas Cuts To East 'Genocide' RFE/RL 25 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Ukraine faces a natural-gas cutoff that could leave Europe with shortages while saying Kyiv's suspension of gas supplies to separatist parts of eastern Ukraine 'smells of genocide.'
Ukraine Now Battles Economy as Fighting Slows VOA 25 Feb 2015 -- As a cease-fire with separatists appeared to be taking hold in eastern Ukraine, Kyiv struggled with a collapsing currency and Russian threats to its natural gas supply on Wednesday.
Kerry accuses Russia of lying about involvement in Ukraine Iran Press TV 25 Feb 2015 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry has leveled accusations against Russian authorities, saying they have been "lying" to his face about Moscow's involvement in Ukraine.
Ukraine president reaches deal to buy arms from UAE Iran Press TV 25 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has reportedly reached an agreement for the purchase of weapons from the Persian Gulf country of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which is itself one of the largest purchasers of US arms in the Middle East.
As Minsk II Flounders, Europe Scrambles For A Backup Plan RFE/RL 25 Feb 2015 -- When the so-called Minsk II deal was signed on February 12, everyone knew its implementation would be - in the words of Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko - 'very difficult.'
Ukraine Says Fighting Eases, But Cease-Fire Still Not Implemented RFE/RL 25 Feb 2015 -- Ukraine's military says violations by Russian-backed separatists of a newly signed cease-fire deal are continuing, but have been decreasing in recent days.
Donbas Envoys Accuse Kiev of Attempts to Jeopardize Weapons Pullout Plan Sputnik 25 Feb 2015 -- Kiev is attempting to jeopardize the heavy weapons withdrawal plan developed by the Joint Coordination Center for Ceasefire Monitoring under the recent Minsk peace agreements, envoys from the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics said Wednesday.
UK Rules Out Combat Troops in Ukraine Amid Warnings Against Mission Creep Sputnik 25 Feb 2015 -- Britain has ruled out deploying combat troops to Ukraine, a day after it said it was sending 75 military advisers and trainers to help the Ukrainian army, but was under pressure from many politicians against 'mission creep'.
Poroshenko's Big Haul: What Exactly Did Ukraine Bring Back From the UAE? Sputnik 25 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has returned home from the IDEX-2015 arms expo, where he was reported to have signed nearly 20 contracts for the supply of weapons with various suppliers.
Ukraine Rebels Say Weapons Pullback Under Way VOA 24 Feb 2015 -- Rebels in war-torn eastern Ukraine said they have begun pulling back heavy weapons from the frontlines, as required by an internationally brokered cease-fire.
Heavy weaponry withdrawal locked in stalemate in eastern Ukraine People's Daily 24 Feb 2015 -- Both the Ukrainian government and the pro-independence insurgents failed to start a withdrawal of their heavy weapons from the front line in eastern Ukraine as agreed, official reports showed Monday.
Moscow threatens to cut gas flow to Kiev Iran Press TV 24 Feb 2015 -- Russia's gas giant Gazprom has threatened to halt its natural gas flow to Ukraine with a full shutdown within two days, if Kiev fails to pay for deliveries.
Pro-Russians say withdrawing heavy weaponry from Donetsk Iran Press TV 24 Feb 2015 -- Pro-Russian forces in the self-declared Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) have begun a full-scale withdrawal of heavy weaponry from the frontlines, officials say.
Ukraine Says Russian-Backed Rebels Still Attacking RFE/RL 24 Feb 2015 -- A Ukrainian military official says Russian-backed rebels have continued attacking government positions in violation of a cease-fire agreement.
Gazprom Threatens To Cut Supplies To Ukraine RFE/RL 24 Feb 2015 -- Russian natural-gas giant Gazprom is threatening to cut off supplies to Ukraine entirely as early as February 26, a move the Russian company says could result in a suspension of supplies to Europe.
DPR Ready to Appeal to Minsk Group if Kiev Fails to Withdraw Weapons Sputnik 24 Feb 2015 -- Authorities of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) in eastern Ukraine will appeal to the international guarantors of the recent Minsk agreements if Kiev fails to meet the deadline on the withdrawal of its heavy weaponry from the separation line, the DPR top negotiator said Tuesday.
Kiev to Start Heavy Weaponry Withdrawal After 48 Hours of Real Ceasefire Sputnik 24 Feb 2015 -- The Kiev government is ready to start withdrawing its heavy weaponry from the line of contact after 48 hours of real ceasefire, a Kiev military spokesman said Tuesday.
Russia Not Considering Restructuring Ukraine's Debt Sputnik 24 Feb 2015 -- Russia is currently not reviewing the possible restructuring of Ukraine's debt because Moscow has not received any official requests, Russian Deputy Finance Minister Sergei Storchak said Tuesday.
Donetsk Begins Withdrawal of Heavy Artillery - Militia Deputy Commander Sputnik 24 Feb 2015 -- The eastern Ukrainian self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic began the withdrawal of heavy artillery from the front line on Tuesday morning, deputy commander of the DNR's militia Eduard Basurin said.
PM announces package of non-lethal support to Ukraine UK MOD 24 Feb 2015 -- The Prime Minister has announced today that the UK will provide further non-lethal support to Ukraine by sending advisory and short-term training teams to build the capacity and resilience of its Armed Forces.
Cameron: British military advisers to train Ukrainian army Iran Press TV 24 Feb 2015 -- British Prime Minister David Cameron says the UK will send military advisers to Ukraine to provide advice and training to the government troops.
UK to Send Military Personnel to Ukraine Sputnik 24 Feb 2015 -- British Prime Minister David Cameron has confirmed that the UK will send up to 75 military personnel to Ukraine within the next month to help train local Ukrainian forces.
With millions 'seriously at risk,' UN launches humanitarian appeal for Ukraine UN News Centre 24 Feb 2015 -- The enormous humanitarian needs of the people of Ukraine have intensified since January this year, outstripping local capacities, the United Nations' top official in Ukraine said today as the international community launched a new humanitarian appeal for the country.
UN chief meets Ukrainian Foreign Minister to discuss conflict, Minsk Agreement UN News Centre 24 Feb 2015 -- The United Nations Secretary-General met yesterday in New York with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Pavlo Klimkin, to discuss the conflict in the east of that country.
Putin Says War With Ukraine 'Unlikely' RFE/RL 24 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says a war with Ukraine is 'unlikely' and he hopes 'it will never happen.'
U.S., Russia Clash Over Ukraine At UN RFE/RL 24 Feb 2015 -- The United States and Russia traded accusations mainly over the conflict in Ukraine at the UN Security Council on February 23.
UN chief discuses Ukraine, other key issues with senior regional officials UN News Centre 23 Feb 2015 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met today with the Foreign Minister of Russia to discuss among other issues, the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine, expressing his expectation that all concerned parties would live up to their commitments to the truce agreed in Minsk on 12 February.
Rebels Celebrate Victory Over Ukrainian Forces at Debaltseve VOA 23 Feb 2015 -- Pro-Russian rebels in eastern Ukraine celebrated their victory over Ukrainian forces at Debaltseve Monday with parades and a huge rally in the nearby city of Donetsk. The festivities in the Russian-speaking city came as the Kyiv government asked the United Nations Security Council to deploy peacekeepers to the war-torn region.
Britain: More Costs for Russia Possible Over Ukraine VOA 23 Feb 2015 -- Calling Russia's actions in Ukraine "illegal," British Prime Minister David Cameron said to lawmakers Monday that more sanctions should be imposed on Russia, if pro-Russian rebels in Ukraine attempt to expand their territorial control.
Ukraine army puts off withdrawal of heavy weapons from frontline of conflict Iran Press TV 23 Feb 2015 -- The Ukrainian Defense Ministry says the army will not withdraw heavy weapons along the frontline in the conflict-stricken east as long as a full ceasefire with pro-Russia forces has not come into force.
Removal of heavy arms begins in east Ukraine Iran Press TV 23 Feb 2015 -- Government troops and pro-Russia forces in eastern Ukraine have declared immediate efforts to withdraw heavy weaponry from the frontlines following a successful prisoner exchange bid.
Another Death In Kharkiv Bombing; Weapons Withdrawal On Hold RFE/RL 23 Feb 2015 -- A third person has died as a result of a bombing in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. The Kharkiv city council's press service said on February 23 that a 15-year-old boy has also died from the injuries he received in the blast.
Reports of Clashes Between Kiev and DPR Forces Close to Mariupol Sputnik 23 Feb 2015 -- Clashes between government forces and the militia of the Donetsk People's Republic [DPR] are continuing on Sunday in the village of Shyrokyno close to Mariupol, representatives of the DPR have told RIA Novosti. According to information from medics, two separatist fighters have been wounded in the fighting.
Kiev to Withdraw Artillery Only When Ceasefire Holds Sputnik 23 Feb 2015 -- Earlier this month, the warring sides agreed on a ceasefire, which started on February 15. Under the deal, brokered by leaders of Russia, France and Germany, both parties must now pull out heavy artillery from the line of contact.
Kyiv, Rebels Swap Prisoners In Eastern Ukraine RFE/RL 22 Feb 2015 -- The Ukrainian government and pro-Russian rebels have exchanged prisoners in the east of the country as part of the shaky international cease-fire reached nearly two weeks ago.
Both Sides Claim Weapons Pullout Ordered In Eastern Ukraine RFE/RL 22 Feb 2015 -- The Ukrainian military and Russia-backed rebels each said they had given orders to pull back heavy weapons from the front line in eastern Ukraine in accordance with the recent cease-fire agreement.
Blast Kills Two in Ukraine-Controlled Kharkiv VOA 22 Feb 2015 -- Two people were killed Sunday in a bomb explosion in the Ukrainian-held city of Kharkiv as government supporters there and elsewhere marked the one-year anniversary of the overthrow of the country's pro-Kremlin president, Viktor Yanukovych.
Ukraine army, pro-Russians agree to withdraw heavy arms within days Iran Press TV 22 Feb 2015 -- Ukraine's army and pro-Russia forces have agreed to pull back their heavy weapons from the frontline of the conflict in eastern regions in accordance with the Minsk ceasefire deal.
Russian Loyalists Hold 'Anti-Maidan' March in Moscow VOA 21 Feb 2015 -- As Ukraine marks the one-year anniversary of the Euromaidan clashes that toppled its Russia-leaning president, thousands of demonstrators in Moscow on Saturday held what they called an "anti-Maidan" march.
US considering arming Ukraine army against protesters in east Iran Press TV 21 Feb 2015 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry says the US is considering whether to provide the Ukrainian army with lethal weapons to suppress a pro-Russia protest in the east of the country.
Up to 500 Ukraine soldiers trapped near Debaltseve: Pro-Russians Iran Press TV 21 Feb 2015 -- Officials in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) say there are up to 500 Ukrainian troops still trapped near the key eastern town of Debaltseve.
179 Ukrainian soldiers killed in battle for Debaltseve: Kiev official Iran Press TV 21 Feb 2015 -- A Ukrainian official says at least 179 government troops lost their lives in the conflict with pro-Russia forces in the key eastern town of Debaltseve over the past month.
Kerry Says U.S., Europe Will Respond To Ukraine Cease-Fire Violations RFE/RL 21 Feb 2015 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry says President Barack Obama will evaluate his options on dealing with events in eastern Ukraine "in the next few days" - including possible further sanctions against Russia and the option of arming Ukrainian troops to fight Russian-backed separatists.
Kerry Says U.S., Europe Will Respond To Ukraine Cease-Fire Violations RFE/RL 21 Feb 2015 -- Thousands of people have rallied in central Moscow to mark the first anniversary of what they view as a 'coup' in neighboring Ukraine.
OSCE Cannot Confirm Withdrawal of Heavy Weaponry in East Ukraine - Official Sputnik 21 Feb 2015 -- The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe's (OSCE) monitoring mission to Ukraine cannot confirm the withdrawal of heavy weapons from the conflict zone in Donbas, the mission's deputy chief monitor said Saturday.
Ukrainian High-Ranking Diplomat Claims Kiev Prepares for 'Full-Scale' War Sputnik 21 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian deputy foreign minister claimed Kiev was preparing for a 'full-scale' war and urged Canada to send lethal assistance to the country in a radio interview.
Yanukovych Claims Ideas of Returning to Ukraine 'Constantly' on His Mind Sputnik 21 Feb 2015 -- During an interview on the anniversary of the Maidan protests, former Ukrainian president Yanukovych claimed he wanted to return to his country and 'bend every effort to make life of Ukrainians easier.'
Ukraine FM Says EU Police Mission Must Be Sent to Donbas After Peacekeepers Sputnik 21 Feb 2015 -- Ukraine's Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin has stressed that an EU police mission needs to be sent to the southeast of the country (Donbas) in order to stabilize the situation there, although a key role in that respect should be played by peacekeepers.
US Senate Coalition Demands Penalizing Russia for Alleged Minsk Violations Sputnik 21 Feb 2015 -- The US should impose additional sanctions on Russia and increase military aid to Kiev to penalize Moscow for allegedly violating the Minsk agreement, a ten-member bipartisan group of US senators said in a letter to US Secretary of State John Kerry.
Ukraine Signs Agreement to Create Military Brigade With Poland, Lithuania Sputnik 20 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko signed the law to ratify an agreement between Ukraine, Poland and Lithuania to create a joint military unit, the so-called Ukrainian-Polish-Lithuanian brigade, Poroshenko's official website reports.
Despite announced ceasefire, UN confirms fighting still heavy in eastern Ukraine UN News Centre 20 Feb 2015 -- While the 15 February ceasefire has led to a decrease in hostilities in east Ukraine, the United Nations human rights office today expressed deep worry over the fate of civilians and Ukrainian servicemen in the Debaltseve area, where heavy fighting has continued as a result of repeated breaches of the truce.
France, Germany Threaten New Sanctions Over Ukraine VOA 20 Feb 2015 -- France and Germany have pressed again for respect for the cease-fire in eastern Ukraine and withdrawal of heavy weaponry, threatening new costs if warring sides there don't comply with last week's truce deal.
Ukrainian President Poroshenko calls for int'l peacekeepers to enforce ceasefire in eastern Ukraine People's Daily 20 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Thursday called for deploying international peacekeepers in the war-torn eastern Ukraine to observe the implementation of a ceasefire deal between government troops and pro-independence rebels.
France, Germany demand full respect for Ukraine truce Iran Press TV 20 Feb 2015 -- German and French leaders have called on warring sides in Ukraine to honor the truce deal amid firefight between pro-Russian forces and Kiev government forces in the eastern town of Debaltseve.
Pro-Russians violated truce 50 times in 24 hours: Kiev Iran Press TV 20 Feb 2015 -- The Ukrainian military claims pro-Russian forces have launched nearly 50 attacks on its positions in the country's restive eastern region over the past day despite a recent ceasefire deal.
France, Germany Call For Ukraine Cease-Fire To Be Fully Observed RFE/RL 20 Feb 2015 -- The French president says he and the German chancellor are "more convinced than ever" that the Minsk agreements aimed at putting an end to fighting in Ukraine should be fully implemented.
Report Accuses EU, Britain Of 'Sleepwalking' Into Ukraine Crisis RFE/RL 20 Feb 2015 -- A British Parliamentary committee says the European Union and Britain are guilty of 'sleepwalking' into the crisis in Ukraine.
Ukraine Marks Anniversary Of Maidan Massacre RFE/RL 20 Feb 2015 -- Commemorations are underway in Kyiv to honor the victims of deadly clashes between antigovernment protesters and security forces a year ago.
Kiev Closes Over 20 Crossing Points at Border With Russia Sputnik 20 Feb 2015 -- Ukraine has closed 23 crossing points on its border with Russia, a decree published on the official website of Ukrainian government showed Friday.
Luhansk, Kiev Sign Heavy Weaponry Withdrawal Plan Sputnik 20 Feb 2015 -- The self-proclaimed Luhansk People's Republic has signed a heavy weaponry withdrawal plan with Kiev, a Russian representative at the joint ceasefire control and coordination center said Friday.
Ukraine Fighting Shifts to Mariupol After Debaltseve Takeover VOA 19 Feb 2015 -- Hopes for a tattered Ukrainian cease-fire continued to fade Thursday with reports of fresh fighting near the Ukrainian port city of Mariupol.
Separatists Violate Cease Fire in Ukraine, Official Says AFPS 19 Feb 2015 -- Separatists in Ukraine have committed several violations of the cease-fire agreement signed last week in Minsk, Belarus, Pentagon spokesman Army Col. Steve Warren said today.
EU set to dispatch armored vehicles to Ukraine: Official Iran Press TV 19 Feb 2015 -- The European Union reportedly plans to provide armored vehicles to Ukraine with the declared aim of monitoring a ceasefire deal recently signed between the Kiev government and pro-Russia forces in Minsk, Belarus.
Ukraine aims to destroy ceasefire deal: Russian UN envoy Iran Press TV 19 Feb 2015 -- Russia's Ambassador to the United Nations (UN) Vitaly Churkin has accused Kiev of seeking to "destroy" a recent ceasefire agreement by calling for the deployment of UN-mandated peacekeepers to eastern Ukraine to enforce the deal.
90% of Ukraine troops retreat from Debaltseve: Spokesman Iran Press TV 19 Feb 2015 -- A vast majority of Ukrainian forces have retreated from the strategic eastern Ukrainian town of Debaltseve, which has been besieged by pro-Russia forces, a Ukrainian military spokesman says.
3,088 Ukraine troops killed in Debaltseve: DPR Iran Press TV 19 Feb 2015 -- The Defense Ministry of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) has announced that a total of 3,088 government troops have been killed in the battle for the flashpoint city of Debaltseve in eastern Ukraine.
Russia, Separatists Dismiss Ukraine Call For Peacekeepers RFE/RL 19 Feb 2015 -- Russia has dismissed Ukraine's calls for UN-mandated peacekeepers to enforce a shaky cease-fire deal in the country's east.
Donetsk Observes Ceasefire, Does Not Respond to Kiev 'Provocations' Sputnik 19 Feb 2015 -- The situation near the contact line between Kiev-led forces and eastern Ukrainian militia is stabilizing, and the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) is continuing the withdrawal of its heavy weapons, deputy commander of the DPR independence forces said Thursday.
Kiev Distorts Own Conclusions on Russian Military Activity Absense - Moscow Sputnik 19 Feb 2015 -- Authorities in Kiev are trying to distort the official conclusions of an inspection by its own Armed Forces regarding the absence of proof of any military activity in Southern Russia, Russian Foreign Ministry's spokesman Alexander Lukashevich said on Thursday.
Russia Begins Gas Deliveries to Eastern Ukraine - Luhansk Sputnik 19 Feb 2015 -- Russian gas has started flowing to the territory of self-proclaimed republics of Donetsk and Luhansk (DPR and LPR), LPR chief Igor Plotnitsky told RIA Novosti Thursday.
Russian PM Instructs Energy Ministry, Gazprom to Deliver Gas to Donbas Sputnik 19 Feb 2015 -- Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has instructed the country's Energy Ministry and gas giant Gazprom to prepare proposals on delivering fuel to eastern Ukraine as humanitarian aid.
Around 3,000 Ukrainian Soldiers Killed in Debaltseve Battle - DPR Official Sputnik 19 Feb 2015 -- Approximately 3,000 Ukrainian troops were killed during battles in the city of Debaltseve, the east Ukrainian self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic's negotiator said Thursday.
UN food agency scales up food assistance in Ukraine to people displaced, trapped by fighting UN News Centre 19 Feb 2015 -- Several days after parties to the conflict in Ukraine signed a ceasefire, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) announced today it is scaling up its emergency operations to feed close to 190,000 vulnerable people displaced and trapped in the beleaguered country.
Kyiv Calls For UN Peacekeepers After Rebel Take Key Town RFE/RL 18 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has called for European peacekeepers to enforce a shaky cease-fire deal in east Ukraine after a key town fell to pro-Russian rebels.
US Faults Rebels, Russia for Ukraine Truce Breach VOA 18 Feb 2015 -- The White House said Wednesday that it is 'crystal clear' that the separatists in eastern Ukraine and Russia are not living up to the cease-fire agreement negotiated last week in Minsk, Belarus, and warned of possible costs.
Separatists Take Control of E. Ukraine Town VOA 18 Feb 2015 -- After weeks of fierce fighting, pro-Russian separatists have taken control of embattled Debaltseve in eastern Ukraine as Kyiv's forces retreated.
European Union outraged over 'Ukraine ceasefire breach' Iran Press TV 18 Feb 2015 -- The European Union has strongly condemned what it refers to as the breach of an internationally-backed ceasefire in the strategic city of Debaltseve in eastern Ukraine.
Ukrainian soldiers withdraw from key town of Debaltseve: Sources Iran Press TV 18 Feb 2015 -- Some government troops have retreated from the strategic eastern Ukrainian town of Debaltseve, which has been besieged by pro-Russia forces, sources say.
West supplying Kiev with arms: Putin Iran Press TV 18 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says Ukrainian forces are being supplied with Western weaponry, while expressing optimism about the potential success of a truce pact for eastern Ukraine.
Poroshenko Says Ukrainian Troops Withdrawing From Debaltseve RFE/RL 18 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has said government forces were completing a 'planned and organized' withdrawal from the eastern town of Debaltseve, which has been at the epicenter of fighting between Ukrainian troops and pro-Russian militants in recent weeks.
Ukrainian Military Pulling Out of Debaltseve Sputnik 18 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has confirmed the planned withdrawal of troops out of the Debaltseve area.
Readout of the Vice President's Call with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko The White House 17 Feb 2015
Putin Demands Surrender of Encircled Ukrainian Troops VOA 17 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin is calling on pro-Russian rebels to allow besieged Ukrainian troops safe passage out of the encircled town of Debaltseve in eastern Ukraine.
Putin Urges Kyiv To Surrender Town Amid U.S. Warnings RFE/RL 17 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has urged Kyiv to allow Ukrainian soldiers who are encircled in an eastern Ukrainian town to lay down their weapons as Washington warned Moscow that 'the costs to Russia will rise' if it kept supporting the rebels.
Ukraine: Security Council endorses Minsk ceasefire, calls on parties to fully implement truce UN News Centre 17 Feb 2015 -- The United Nations Security Council today adopted a resolution endorsing the 13-point accord on ending the Ukraine crisis agreed in Minsk – including a cease-fire – and called on all parties to the conflict to fully implement that cessation of hostilities, as the UN human rights office expressed concern over reported shelling and trapped civilians in the country's east.
Explanation of Vote at a Security Council Session on the Situation in Ukraine U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations 17 Feb 2015
UN: Nearly 5,700 killed in east Ukraine conflict Iran Press TV 17 Feb 2015 -- The UN says the death toll from fighting between Ukrainian troops and pro-Russia forces in eastern Ukraine has reached nearly 5,700.
Pro-Russia forces say pushed Ukraine army out of Debaltseve Iran Press TV 17 Feb 2015 -- Pro-Russia forces say they have pushed Ukraine's army out of the eastern hotbed city of Debaltseve as a ceasefire deadline for the withdrawal of heavy weaponry draws closer.
Putin Calls For Safe Corridor As Kyiv Confirms Separatists Take Parts Of Debaltseve RFE/RL 17 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has called on pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine to allow Ukranian troops safe passage out of the encircled town of Debaltseve.
US Senators Urge Obama to Arm Kiev Claiming Ceasefire Failed Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- US President Barack Obama should provide arms to the Ukrainian government, considering that the Minsk ceasefire has failed between Kiev and the independence supporters in eastern Ukraine, US Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham said in a press release on Tuesday.
Putin Says Optimistic About Minsk Agreements Implementation Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Tuesday he was optimistic about the implementation of the Minsk agreements and the settlement of the Ukrainian crisis.
OSCE Monitors Report Withdrawal of Kiev Weaponry From Contact Line Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- The OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) has observed the withdrawal of Kiev forces' military vehicles from the line of contact in eastern Ukraine, the mission said in its daily report published Tuesday.
Six Independence Supporters, 94 Kiev Soldiers Killed in 24 Hours - DPR Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- In the past 24 hours, 6 independence supporters and 94 Kiev soldiers were killed in the clashes in eastern Ukraine, a deputy commander of DPR militia Eduard Basurin said Tuesday.
OSCE Report Says Ceasefire in Donbas Observed Except for Debaltseve Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- Head of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine Ertugrul Apakan and OSCE negotiator at the Contact Group talks Heidi Taliavini in their latest report said that the ceasefire in eastern Ukraine is generally observed, with the exception of Debaltsevo area, Russia's envoy to the OSCE Andrei Kelin told RIA Novosti on Tuesday.
Donetsk Forces Ready to Withdraw Artillery Wherever Kiev Observes Ceasefire Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) militia is ready to withdraw artillery from the areas, where the ceasefire is observed by Kiev forces, a deputy commander of DPR militia Eduard Basurin said Tuesday.
Lithuania Selling Arms to Kiev is of 'Grave Concern' to Russia Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- Moscow has called Lithuania's announcement of providing Kiev with weapons a provocation that undermines the efforts of settling the situation in Ukraine, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich said Tuesday.
Donetsk Ready to Release Encircled Kiev Troops if They Lay Down Arms Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- Militia of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) is ready to let encircled Kiev troops leave Debaltseve without weapons, a DPR deputy military commander said Tuesday.
Some 2,000 Soldiers Encircled in Debaltseve - Kiev Lawmaker Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- About 2,000 Ukrainian servicemen have been encircled in Debaltsevo, a strategic transport hub in eastern Ukraine that has been hotly contested in recent days, a senior Ukrainian lawmaker who is also the commander of the pro-Kiev Dnipro volunteer battalion, said Tuesday.
Ukraine Sends List of Necessary Military Equipment to US - Kiev Official Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- The Ukrainian Defense Ministry compiled a list of necessary military equipment, including weapons, and sent it to the United States, presidential adviser of the country Yuri Biryukov said Tuesday.
No Information on Weaponry Withdrawal Starting at Midnight – DPR Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- The self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) in southeastern Ukraine has no information regarding the start of heavy weaponry withdrawal from the region, DPR deputy commander Eduard Basurin has told RIA Novosti.
US Voices Alarm as Rebels Ignore Cease-Fire in E. Ukraine VOA 16 Feb 2015 -- The United States says it is 'gravely concerned' over the deteriorating situation in and around the eastern Ukrainian town of Debaltseve, where pro-Russian rebels are refusing to honor an internationally brokered cease-fire.
Fighting Persists In Eastern Ukraine Despite Cease-Fire RFE/RL 16 Feb 2015 -- Kyiv says Ukrainian forces have been fired on 112 times by Russia-backed separatists in the past 24 hours, despite a cease-fire agreement that came into force on February 15.
EU Expands Ukraine-Crisis Sanctions List RFE/RL 16 Feb 2015 -- The European Union has blacklisted an additional 19 individuals and nine entities for 'undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine.'
U.S. Urges Russia, Separatists To 'Immediately' Halt Ukraine Attacks RFE/RL 16 Feb 2015 -- along with 15 separatists in Donetsk and Luhansk -- to its travel-ban and asset-freeze blacklist for 'undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine.'
Weaponry Withdrawal May Begin in Areas Where Hostilities Suspended - DPR Sputnik 16 Feb 2015 -- The withdrawal of weapons from the line of contact may begin in eastern Ukraine's areas, where hostilities are already suspended, a deputy commander of Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) militia Eduard Basurin said Monday.
Donetsk Not Responding to Provocations From Ukrainian Forces - DPR Official Sputnik 16 Feb 2015 -- The eastern Ukrainian self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic is observing the Minsk agreements and not responding to provocations by Ukrainian military forces, DPR militia head Eduard Basurin said Monday.
Ukraine Not Yet Prepared to Withdraw Heavy Artillery - Kiev Spokesman Sputnik 16 Feb 2015 -- Kiev is not ready to withdraw its heavy artillery from the conflict zone in the eastern regions of the country but has prepared areas for when the withdrawal occurs, a representative from Kiev's special operations unit said Monday.
Kiev Amasses Heavy Artillery Near Artemivsk, Mironivske, Luhanske Sputnik 16 Feb 2015 -- Kiev is amassing heavy artillery near the populated areas of Artemivsk, Mironivske, and Luhanske, thereby creating provocations in order to blame the eastern independence supporters of breaching the Minsk agreement, the deputy head of the militia from the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic said Monday.
Amid reports of fighting in eastern Ukraine, Ban urges all parties to abide by cease-fire UN News Centre 16 Feb 2015 -- With Ukraine cease-fire 'largely holding', United Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has expressed serious concern at reports of continued instances of hostilities including in Debaltseve and reiterated his call for all parties to abide by the cease-fire without exception.
Ukraine Should Get Consumption of Russian Gas Down to Zero – Prime Minister Sputnik 16 Feb 2015 -- Ukraine should bring the consumption of natural gas from Russia down to zero, the country's Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk has said.
DPR Registers 3 Shellings of Horlivka by Kiev Forces – Envoy Sputnik 16 Feb 2015 -- The authorities of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) have recorded three shellings of the Donbas town of Horlivka by the Ukrainian army on Sunday evening, DPR envoy Denis Pushilin said.
Moscow urges full implementation of Ukraine truce deal Iran Press TV 15 Feb 2015 -- Moscow says all the terms of a peace deal recently reached in the Belarusian capital, Minsk, to end the fighting in eastern Ukraine must be "unconditionally observed."
Ukraine Cease-Fire Said To Be Holding Despite Scattered Incidents RFE/RL 15 Feb 2015 -- The cease-fire in Ukraine that came into effect during the night is generally holding, despite some reports of scattered shelling.
DPR Envoy Says Appealed to OSCE Regarding Ukrainian Army Shelling Horlivka Sputnik 15 Feb 2015 -- Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) envoy Denis Pushilin said Sunday that he has contacted the representatives of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) regarding the shelling of Horlivka, Donbas region by Kiev forces.
Head of DPR Suggests Ukrainian Troops Leave Debaltsevo Without Weapons Sputnik 15 Feb 2015 -- The head of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), Alexander Zakharchenko suggested Ukrainian troops leave Debaltseve without weapons and military equipment, the Donetsk News Agency said Sunday.
Donetsk Militia Say OSCE Made No Requests to Visit Debaltseve Sputnik 15 Feb 2015 -- The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) monitoring mission to Ukraine did not request the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) to visit the area of Debaltseve, DPR negotiator said Sunday.
OSCE to Monitor Ukraine Ceasefire in Debaltseve, Mariupol, Donetsk Airport Sputnik 15 Feb 2015 -- The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) has reinforced its mission in eastern Ukraine to monitor the ceasefire in the conflict's flashpoints, including Debaltseve, Mariupol and the Donetsk Airport, Russia's envoy to the OSCE told RIA Novosti Sunday.
OSCE Barred From Debaltseve in Breach of Minsk Agreements – Ukrainian FM Sputnik 15 Feb 2015 -- Representatives of the Organization for the Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) are not allowed to enter the city of Debaltseve in eastern Ukraine, in violation of the Minsk agreements, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin said Sunday.
Ukrainian Ceasefire Comes Into Force: Sides Order to Cease Hostilities Sputnik 15 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President ordered all the units on the front line of contact with the independence supporters to cease fire starting from midnight.
Ukraine Rebels Reject Cease-Fire at Encircled Town VOA 15 Feb 2015 -- Pro-Russian rebels battling Ukrainian forces near the Russian border sought to modify a new truce deal Sunday, saying terms of the cease-fire agreement did not apply to the town where most of the fighting has taken place this month.
Fighting Intensifies in Ukraine Ahead of Cease-Fire VOA 14 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian forces and Russian-backed separatists unleashed a barrage of artillery fire Saturday, hours before a European brokered cease-fire was due to come into effect.
Intense clashes going on in eastern Ukraine as truce implementation nears Iran Press TV 14 Feb 2015 -- Fierce exchanges of fire between government troops and pro-Russia forces are underway in eastern Ukraine as a ceasefire to end hostilities in the highly volatile region is to take effect within hours.e
U.S. Says Russia Violating 'Spirit' Of Ukraine Peace Deal RFE/RL 14 Feb 2015 -- The United States has accused Russia and pro-Russian rebels of violating "the spirit" of a fresh peace deal for eastern Ukraine.
Fighting Rages In Eastern Ukraine Ahead Of Ceasefire RFE/RL 14 Feb 2015 -- Deadly fighting has continued to rage in eastern Ukraine despite an imminent cease-fire between pro-Russian separatists and Ukrainian forces.
Fake Photos? Ukrainian Deputy Rejects U.S. Senator's Claims Of Misinformation RFE/RL 14 Feb 2015 -- A Ukrainian deputy is denying claims that he provided U.S. Senate staff with photos of Russian convoys from 2008 and portrayed them as part of an incursion into Ukraine.
Ukraine, US Agree on Further Coordination if Donbas Conflict Escalates Sputnik 14 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko and US President Barack Obama during a phone talk on Saturday agreed on further coordination of efforts in case of Ukrainian conflict escalation.
UK Confirms Delivery of Out-of-Service Armored Vehicles to Ukraine Sputnik 14 Feb 2015 -- The UK Ministry of Defense has confirmed that a private company delivered British Saxon armored vehicles to Ukraine. The equipment is out-of-service and is non-lethal.
Donbas Forces Ready to React if Kiev Neglects Minsk Agreements – DPR Sputnik 14 Feb 2015 -- Eastern Ukrainian forces are ready to react if Kiev does not follow new Minsk agreements on Ukrainian reconciliation, self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic's (DPR) envoy to the Contact Group talks Denis Pushilin told journalists Saturday.
Kyiv Officials: 11 Troops Killed Since Minsk Deal VOA 13 Feb 2015 -- Ukraine's military said Friday that 11 soldiers had been killed and 40 wounded in fighting in eastern Ukraine in the past day, despite a cease-fire deal that was reached Thursday but is not yet in effect.
EU threatens new bans on Russia if Ukraine truce violated Iran Press TV 13 Feb 2015 -- European powers have threatened fresh sanctions against Russia should a newly-signed ceasefire deal aimed at ending the crisis in eastern Ukraine fail to be implemented.
EU Wary About Ukraine Peace Deal RFE/RL 13 Feb 2015 -- European Union leaders have expressed caution about the peace deal hammered out for eastern Ukraine.
Tank Battle Reported In Donetsk As Cease-Fire Nears RFE/RL 13 Feb 2015 -- A tank battle was reportedly raging in eastern Ukraine as government forces continued to fight Russian-backed separatists ahead of a cease-fire slated to go into effect this weekend.
Poroshenko Warns of Conflict Escalation Despite Successful Peace Talks Sputnik 13 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Friday warned the threat of military escalation in the country's east still remains despite the positive outcome of peace talks in Belarus.
Nobody Has Firm Belief in Success of Minsk Deal - Poroshenko Sputnik 13 Feb 2015 -- Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko said Friday that the new Minsk agreements on regulating the crisis in eastern Ukraine gives hope, but he is unsure whether they will be fully implemented.
Minsk Agreements Should Bring End to Sanctions Against Russia - Minister Sputnik 13 Feb 2015 -- The agreements reached in Minsk on the crisis situation in Ukraine should help in lifting of economic sanctions imposed on Russia, Russian Economic Development Minister Alexei Ulyukayev said Friday.
UN Hails Ukraine Cease-fire; US Warns Against its Violation VOA 12 Feb 2015 -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is praising the efforts of key world leaders to end fighting in eastern Ukraine, saying he expects the truce deal reached Thursday in Belarus to be honored by all parties.
Interpretations of Ukraine Cease-Fire Pact Could Clash VOA 12 Feb 2015 -- The Ukraine cease-fire agreement signed Thursday in Minsk shares many of the features of the cease-fire accord reached in the Belarusian capital last September. That accord ended up being violated more than observed. The new agreement could be undermined by provisions that are all its own.
Ukraine Cease-Fire Agreement US Dept. of State 12 Feb 2015 -- Press Statement by John Kerry, US Secretary of State
Background Briefing on Ukraine US Dept. of State 12 Feb 2015 -- Special Briefing by Senior Administration Officials
Ban commends 'intensive' diplomatic efforts to end Ukraine crisis, urges respect for cease-fire terms UN News Centre 12 Feb 2015 -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today commended the perseverance of the leaders of Russia, Ukraine, France and Germany to bring the conflict in Ukraine to an end, resulting in the signing of a package of measures for the implementation of the Minsk accords of September 2014.
East Ukraine Cease-fire Deal Reached VOA 12 Feb 2015 -- The leaders of Ukraine, Russia, Germany and France emerged from marathon talks in Belarus Thursday with a cease-fire deal aimed at ending months of fighting that has killed thousands in eastern Ukraine.
Analysis: Ukraine Accord May Not End Conflict VOA 12 Feb 2015 -- When the leaders of four major countries convene at a neutral location for high-profile talks aimed at ending a war, results are expected.
Russia's President Putin calls for Ukrainian troops to lay down arms Iran Press TV 12 Feb 2015 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin has called on the encircled Ukrainian troops in eastern regions of the country to lay down arms for a newly-signed ceasefire to take effect.
Russia transferred weaponry to Ukraine during Minsk talks: Kiev Iran Press TV 12 Feb 2015 -- The government in Kiev says Russia has transferred heavy weaponry, including 50 tanks, to Ukraine's east while peace talks were underway in the Belarusian capital, Minsk.
IMF reaches $17.5 billion deal with Ukraine: Lagarde Iran Press TV 12 Feb 2015 -- The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says it has reached a four-year preliminary deal to provide Ukraine with an additional rescue package worth $17.5 billion.
Ukraine Cease-Fire Deal Signed At Minsk Summit RFE/RL 12 Feb 2015 -- The leaders of Ukraine, Russia, Germany, and France have signed off on a road map for a Ukrainian peace deal after 16 hours of talks in the Belarusian capital, Minsk.
IMF, Ukraine Agree To $17.5 Billion Deal RFE/RL 12 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk says a new multibillion-dollar aid package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) requires 'very difficult' reforms to fight corruption, overhaul the energy sector, cut spending, and reduce bureaucracy.
Minsk Agreements Allow for Ukraine's 'Dismemberment' - US Senator Graham Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- The Minsk peace talks between Ukraine, France, Germany, Russia and leaders of Luhansk and Donetsk have resulted in the destruction of the Ukrainian state, US Senator Lindsey Graham told Sputnik on Thursday.
Ukraine's NATO Bid Was Not Discussed in Minsk - Poroshenko Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- Kiev's bid to become a NATO member was not on the agenda of the Minsk summit on Ukrainian crisis, President Petro Poroshenko said Thursday.
Donbas Forces Ready to Cease Fire in Debaltseve Area Immediately Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- Donetsk militia is ready to cease fire in the contested Debaltseve area immediately and allow surrounded Kiev soldiers to leave the area 'on respectful conditions,' a senior DPR commander said Thursday.
Ukrainians Evading Draft May Face Five Years in Prison Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted a new legislation, according to which Ukrainians evading the draft can be punished with five-year imprisonment.
Heavy Arms Pullout From Ukraine Conflict Zone to Take at Least 3 Days - DPR Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- The withdrawal of heavy weaponry from the conflict zone in eastern Ukraine could take at least three days due to technical formalities, a Donetsk people's republic (DPR) official said Thursday.
Russia to Continue Efforts Toward Ukrainian Crisis Reconciliation Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- Russia will continue its work aimed at settling the Ukrainian crisis, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Thursday.
Peace by Negotiations, Not by Arming Ukraine – Moscow Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- The countries calling for lethal arms deliveries to Ukraine are against a diplomatic solution to the crisis, and are not interested in peace in the country, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Alexei Meshkov said Thursday.
Poroshenko After Minsk Talks: Donbas Autonomy, Federalization Not an Option Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko has flatly rejected the idea of granting a broad autonomy to the eastern Donbas region, and of making Ukraine a federation.
Donetsk, Luhansk Leaders Sign Minsk Deal on Ukraine - Hollande Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- The leaders of the self-proclaimed eastern Ukrainian Donetsk and Luhansk People's republics have signed an agreement on settling the political crisis in the country, French President Francois Hollande said Thursday.
Heavy Artillery Withdrawal in Donbas Should Be Completed Within Two Weeks Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- Heavy artillery withdrawal in Donbas is set to start soon and will be completed within 14 days, the Minsk document reads.
Ceasefire in Ukraine to Begin Midnight February 15 - Putin Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- is the withdrawal of heavy artillery from the today's contact line for Ukrainian army, and from the line marked on September 19 last year in the Minsk agreements for Donbas,,' Putin told journalists in the Belarusian capital of Minsk following the peace talks on Ukraine.
No Progress Reported as Ukraine Peace Talks Continue VOA 12 Feb 2015 -- The leaders of Ukraine, Russia, France and Germany continued meetings early Thursday aimed at ending the Ukraine crisis after engaging in marathon all-night talks in the Belarusian capital.
'Battle Of Nerves' As Ukraine Talks Enter 11th Hour RFE/RL 11 Feb 2015 -- A tense summit in Minsk between the leaders of Ukraine, Russia, Germany and France dragged on into the early hours of February 12 as they wrangled over a plan to end 10 months of fighting in eastern Ukraine.
Ukraine Talks Likely to Go Into Morning Hours VOA 11 Feb 2015 -- Some progress was signaled as the leaders of Germany, France, Russia and Ukraine negotiated into early Thursday morning to try to end the deadly conflict in eastern Ukraine.
Ukraine president says Kiev ready to introduce martial law amid crisis Iran Press TV 11 Feb 2015 -- Ukraine's government has announced its readiness to impose martial law in case the crisis escalates in the country's east.
Ukraine Conflict Summit Holds 'Glimmer Of Hope' RFE/RL 11 Feb 2015 -- The leaders of Ukraine, Russia, Germany, and France have begun a summit in Minsk aimed at ending 10 months of conflict in eastern Ukraine.
Report Warns Russia's 'Hybrid Warfare' In Ukraine Could Inspire Others RFE/RL 11 Feb 2015 -- In a new report, a top defense think tank warns that Russia's destabilizing actions in Ukraine, including 'sophisticated combinations of conventional and unconventional means of warfare,' could inspire NATO's potential state and non-state adversaries elsewhere in the world.
Ukraine Crisis Could Get Out of Control Without Strict Truce - Poroshenko Sputnik 11 Feb 2015 -- The situation in Ukraine will either de-escalate or go out of control if the Minsk agreements are not strictly implemented, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said Wednesday.
Norway Rejects Arms Deliveries to Kiev, Calls for Talks to Solve Conflict Sputnik 11 Feb 2015 -- Norway is determined not to send any weapons to Ukraine, Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg said Wednesday.
Pentagon to Train Ukraine's National Guardsmen Sputnik 11 Feb 2015 -- A team of Pentagon representatives arrived in Ukraine to set the stage for the planned training of the country's National Guardsmen by US military instructors.
Kiev, Donbas Reach Ceasefire Deal Ahead of Minsk Talks Sputnik 11 Feb 2015 -- The Contact Group on Ukraine's crisis settlement has managed to reach a preliminary agreement on the ceasefire in the southeast of the country, as well as on arms withdrawal, a source close to the organization of the Minsk talks said Wednesday.
Obama Calls Putin Regarding Ukraine Situation VOA 10 Feb 2015 -- The White House says President Barack Obama spoke by phone Tuesday with Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging the Russian leader to back a peace deal for Ukraine set for review Wednesday at a four-nation crisis summit in Belarus.
Readout of the President's Call with President Putin of Russia The White House 10 Feb 2015
Poland says has no plans to send lethal weapons to Ukraine Iran Press TV 10 Feb 2015 -- Poland has ruled out sending arms to Ukraine, saying supplying the government in Kiev with lethal weaponry is "out of the question."
'Pro-Russian forces encircle Debaltseve in E Ukraine' Iran Press TV 10 Feb 2015 -- Pro-Russian forces in east Ukraine have reportedly surrounded the key transport hub of Debaltseve, amid raging violence between the militias and government troops.
Scores Dead, Injured As Missiles Hit Ukraine Military HQ, Civilian Area In Kramatorsk RFE/RL 10 Feb 2015 -- President Petro Poroshenko said there are a 'significant' number of casualties after missiles hit Ukraine's military headquarters and a residential area in the eastern city of Kramatorsk.
Contact Group On Ukraine Begins Talks in Minsk Sputnik 10 Feb 2015 -- The Contact Group on Ukraine started on Tuesday a new round of consultations ahead of the much-anticipated Minsk summit in the so-called Normandy format, a RIA Novosti correspondent reported.
Ukraine Jails 'Russian Spy' for Nine Years on Treason Charge Sputnik 10 Feb 2015 -- Northern Ukraine's Chernigiv Court has sentenced a former military serviceman to a nine-year jail term on charges of espionage in favor of Russia, the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) said Tuesday in a statement.
Obama, Merkel Discuss Ukraine Situation, ISIL AFPS 09 Feb 2015 -- The United States will continue to stand with nations around the world in sanctions against Russia for its actions in Ukraine, President Barack Obama said during a joint news conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel today.
Remarks by President Obama and Chancellor Merkel in Joint Press Conference The White House 09 Feb 2015
Germany Warns 'European Order' at Risk Ahead of Ukraine Peace Talks VOA 09 Feb 2015 -- Leaders from France, Germany, Ukraine and Russia are due to meet in Minsk on Wednesday in the latest attempt to reach a peace deal in the Ukrainian conflict.
Obama, Merkel Opt for Diplomacy in Ukraine Crisis VOA 09 Feb 2015 -- President Barack Obama said on Monday the United States and its European allies remain committed to finding a diplomatic solution to tensions with Russia over Ukraine.
Kiev says 1,500 Russian soldiers entered Ukraine Iran Press TV 09 Feb 2015 -- The Ukrainian army says convoys of Russian military hardware and at least 1,500 Russian soldiers have crossed the border into Ukraine over the weekend.
Russia concerned by Ukraine militarization Iran Press TV 09 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has voiced concern about the rapid militarization of Ukraine, with increased defense spending, while the country is struggling with economic woes.
Obama Says Russia Has Clearly Violated Agreement On Ukraine RFE/RL 09 Feb 2015 -- U.S. President Barack Obama said after a February 9 meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Washington that it is clear Russia has violated a previous agreement on Ukraine.
Germany Says Minsk Summit On Ukraine Not Yet Certain RFE/RL 09 Feb 2015 -- German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier has raised doubts about the prospects of a four-way Ukraine peace summit on February 11, suggesting it is not yet certain the proposed gathering in Minsk will take place.
Deployment of UN peacekeepers in East Ukraine Possible – Russian UN Envoy Sputnik 09 Feb 2015 -- The deployment of UN peacekeepers in the conflict zone in eastern Ukraine is possible, Russian envoy to the United Nations Vitaly Churkin said Monday.
US Considers Sending Lethal Aid to Ukraine Sputnik 09 Feb 2015 -- US and German leaders are trying to overcome serious disagreements regarding their actions in Ukraine as the situation in the country's east rapidly deteriorates. A growing number of voices in the Obama administration support the sending of arms to Ukraine, while German Chancellor Angela Merkel has remained steadfast against the proposal.
Poland Admits Possibility of Supplying Ukraine With Weapons Sputnik 09 Feb 2015 -- Poland is not ruling out the possibility of supplying arms to Ukraine, the country's defense minister said Monday.
Donetsk Militia Claims to Have Control of Key Supply Route to Kiev Forces Sputnik 09 Feb 2015 -- The pro-independence militia in eastern Ukraine claimed Monday it took control over a strategic highway used to supply weapons and equipment for Ukrainian forces in Debaltsevo, the Donetsk military said.
EU Not Discussing Deployment of Troops to Ukraine, Supports Arms Deliveries Sputnik 09 Feb 2015 -- The issue of sending troops from the European Union to Ukraine is not being discussed but weapons should be sent for defense purposes, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius said Monday.
Merkel To Hold Ukraine Talks In Washington With Obama RFE/RL 08 Feb 2015 -- and not against -- Russia,' he said. 'However, this cannot be a unilateral recognition. It has to be clear to Moscow as well that there is only a good future for Russia with Europe, together with Europe -- and not against Europe.'
Ukraine Cease-Fire Talks to Open Wednesday in Belarus VOA 08 Feb 2015 -- The leaders of Russia, Ukraine, Germany and France have agreed to meet Wednesday in Belarus for talks aimed at a deal to end the surging pro-Russian rebellion in eastern Ukraine.
Russia slams US plan for arming Ukraine Iran Press TV 08 Feb 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has criticized the US' plans to supply "lethal weapons" to the Ukrainian government.
Donetsk says Kiev seeks to 'discredit' pro-Russia forces Iran Press TV 08 Feb 2015 -- Ukraine has been sending groups to the self-declared Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and Lugansk People's Republic (LPR) to frighten locals and discredit the armed forces of the two regions, the Donetsk information agency says.
Germany Announces Top-Level Ukraine Summit In Minsk RFE/RL 08 Feb 2015 -- and not against -- Russia,' he said. 'However, this cannot be a unilateral recognition. It has to be clear to Moscow as well that there is only a good future for Russia with Europe, together with Europe -- and not against Europe.'
UK May Arm Ukraine if Situation Changes – Foreign Secretary Sputnik 08 Feb 2015 -- The United Kingdom's decision not to supply weapons to Ukraine will be reviewed if the situation in the conflict-torn country changes, UK Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said Sunday.
US Plans to Supply Weapons to Kiev May Disrupt Conflict Settlement - Lavrov Sputnik 08 Feb 2015 -- The plans of the United States to supply weapons to Kiev may disrupt the settlement of Ukrainian conflict, Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on its official Facebook page Sunday, citing Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
Kiev Orders to Mine Entire Rail Infrastructure in Debaltseve Sputnik 08 Feb 2015 -- Kiev authorities have ordered their forces to mine the entire rail infrastructure in the eastern Ukrainian town of Debaltseve, deputy head of the self-proclaimed Dontesk People's Republic's (DPR) militia Eduard Basurin said Sunday.
Merkel Wants West to Build Security in Europe With Russia, Not Against It Sputnik 07 Feb 2015 -- The West is striving to build security in Europe together with Russia and not against it, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Saturday.
Biden: US Will Help Ukraine Defend Itself if Necessary VOA 07 Feb 2015 -- The United States wants a peaceful solution to the conflict in Ukraine but, if necessary, will help Kyiv defend itself against Russia, U.S. Vice President Joe Biden said Saturday.
West must not rule out arming Ukraine: NATO Iran Press TV 07 Feb 2015 -- A senior NATO commander says the Western states should not exclude the option of sending weapons to Ukraine amid escalating tensions between Moscow and the West.
US arms supply to Ukraine worst idea: Russia diplomat Iran Press TV 07 Feb 2015 -- A senior Russian diplomat has warned against a proposal by the United States to supply weapons to Ukraine, calling it the "the worst idea under the current circumstances."
Merkel, Hollande Warn Of More Blooodshed If Ukraine Diplomacy Fails RFE/RL 07 Feb 2015 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said that prospects for peace in Ukraine remain clouded after talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and warned that tension between Moscow and the West could spiral out of control if diplomacy fails.
UK Foreign Secretary Rules Out Sending Arms to Ukraine Sputnik 07 Feb 2015 -- Britain is not planning to supply weapons to Ukraine at the moment and prefers a peaceful solution to the crisis, UK Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said Saturday on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Germany.
Kiev Launches Large-Scale Offensive on Donetsk Militia Positions Sputnik 07 Feb 2015 -- Kiev-led forces attempted on Saturday to launch a large-scale offensive against the armed militia from the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) along the entire length of the separation line, a senior DPR official told RIA Novosti.
Poroshenko Convinced Increasing Arms to Ukraine Will Reduce Violence Sputnik 07 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko reiterated on Saturday his calls for military assistance to the country saying that the lack of defense capabilities leads to even more violence.
Russia, EU Leaders Agree to Work on Ukraine Cease-fire VOA 06 Feb 2015 -- The leaders of France, Germany, and Russia have failed to reach a breakthrough peace deal on Ukraine during talks in Moscow. But they agreed to work on a shaky September cease-fire.
Would US Military Aid to Ukraine Push Putin to Escalate? VOA 06 Feb 2015 -- As the United States weighs arming Ukraine's military to bolster its fight against Russia-backed separatists, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President François Hollande have begun talks in Moscow to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis.
Ahead of Ukraine Talks, Combatants Allow Civilians to Evacuate VOA 06 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia rebels have begun evacuating civilians from Debaltseve, a strategic city where fighting recently intensified. The cease-fire comes as French President Francois Hollande and German Chancellor Angela Merkel are due to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to try to end the conflict.
German chancellor says peace in Ukraine brings peace to Europe Iran Press TV 06 Feb 2015 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel says a German-French initiative to stop deadly clashes in eastern Ukraine is aimed at defending peace all over Europe.
Kiev, pro-Russians agree on truce around Debaltseve Iran Press TV 06 Feb 2015 -- The Ukrainian government and pro-Russian forces have agreed on a brief humanitarian truce around the town of Debaltseve, as German and French leaders head to Moscow for peace talks.
Merkel, Hollande Call On Putin With Ukraine Peace Plan RFE/RL 06 Feb 2015 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande have met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in a diplomatic push for peace in eastern Ukraine.
UN refugee agency says 'over a million' may already be displaced by eastern Ukraine violence UN News Centre 06 Feb 2015 -- Nearly 1 million people may have now been displaced by the conflict in eastern Ukraine, with the recent upsurge in violence causing massive destruction of buildings and infrastructure, the collapse of basic services and a spike in the numbers fleeing fighting, the United Nations refugee agency reported today.
German, French Leaders Take Ukraine Peace Plan to Putin VOA 06 Feb 2015 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande are meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, where they are expected to present him with a new peace proposal aimed at ending an escalation in fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Finland Rules Out Weapon Supplies to Conflict-Torn Ukraine Sputnik 06 Feb 2015 -- Finnish President Sauli Niinisto has announced that his country will not provide lethal aid to Kiev, which continues its fight against independence supporters in the southeast.
Secretary General: Situation in Ukraine is critical, NATO supports peace efforts NATO 06 Feb 2015
NATO 'fully supports' German-French proposal on Ukraine peace Iran Press TV 06 Feb 2015 -- NATO has voiced full support for the mediatory efforts by Germany and France to end the deadly clashes in eastern Ukraine.
Under Siege, Ukraine Awaits Decision on Lethal Aid VOA 05 Feb 2015 -- At the last checkpoint before the battle zone, Ukrainian troops keep a careful watch on who goes in, while families squeeze into cars to leave and busloads of children head out to relatives or shelters.
Expert: Sending Weapons to Ukraine Would Embolden Putin VOA 05 Feb 2015 -- As Western leaders step up their efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis in eastern Ukraine, one analyst says any peace deal must include the proviso that the Ukrainian government has to deal with separatist leaders.
Remarks With Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko After Their Meeting US Dept. of State 05 Feb 2015 -- Remarks by John Kerry, Secretary of State
Press Availability With Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk After Their Meeting US Dept. of State 05 Feb 2015 -- Press Availability by John Kerry, Secretary of State
Russia concerned by planned regional military alliance Iran Press TV 05 Feb 2015 -- Russia has voiced concern over the planned formation of a multinational military alliance among Ukraine, Poland and Lithuania amid rising tensions between Moscow and the West over the crisis in Ukraine's east.
Kerry: US Won't 'Close Eyes' to Russian Aggression in Ukraine VOA 05 Feb 2015 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said the United States, while seeking a diplomatic solution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine, would not 'close our eyes' to Russian tanks and fighters crossing the border.
Russia warns US not to send arms supplies to Ukraine Iran Press TV 05 Feb 2015 -- Russia has warned the United States against sending weapons to Ukraine, saying the move would cause "colossal damage" to ties between the two countries.
Kerry Says Obama To Decide 'Soon' Whether To Give Ukraine Weapons RFE/RL 05 Feb 2015 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry says President Barack Obama will decide "soon" whether to provide lethal weapons to Ukraine to help it fight a Russian-backed military offensive by pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Biden to Discuss Ukraine Crisis With EU Leaders Sputnik 05 Feb 2015 -- During his visit to Belgium and Germany this week, US Vice President Joe Biden will discuss with the European Union leaders the situation in Ukraine along with other key economic and security issues, according to a White House press release issued on Thursday.
German Media Say Kiev Has Little Chance to Gain Upper Hand in Conflict Sputnik 05 Feb 2015 -- Kiev has little chances to win the battle against Luhansk and Donetsk People's Republics, as Kiev's policy increasingly disposes the local population against the current Ukrainian government, the German "Der Spiegel" magazine stated.
Italy Will Not Supply Arms to Kiev Sputnik 05 Feb 2015 -- The Italian FM categorically ruled out any lethal arms supplies to Kiev, urging instead, the quickest possible cessation of hostilities in eastern Ukraine.
Ukraine Ratifies Agreement on Joint Military Brigade With Poland, Lithuania Sputnik 05 Feb 2015 -- Ukraine, Lithuania and Poland are planning to establish a 4000-man military brigade, which is expected to act under the patronage of the UN and the EU.
President Hollande Opposes Ukraine's NATO Membership Sputnik 05 Feb 2015 -- France does not support the idea of Ukraine joining NATO, French President Francois Hollande said Thursday.
UN chief 'gravely concerned' as civilian death toll from Ukraine conflict continues to rise UN News Centre 05 Feb 2015 -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has voiced grave concern over the continuing hostilities in eastern Ukraine amid an escalating rebel offensive which has locked civilians in a zone of intense fighting.
Background Briefing En Route Kyiv, Ukraine US Dept. of State 04 Feb 2015
Poroshenko Calls for NATO Weapons Ahead of Kerry Meeting VOA 04 Feb 2015 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry meets in Kyiv Thursday with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, who is making a fresh appeal for Western weapons to help fight pro Russian rebels.
Nominee to Head Pentagon Backs 'Lethal Aid' to Ukraine VOA 04 Feb 2015 -- President Barack Obama's choice to become U.S. defense secretary said Wednesday that he is inclined to support supplying Ukraine with 'lethal arms' to fight Russia-backed insurgents.
France says not after sending lethal weapons to Ukraine at present Iran Press TV 04 Feb 2015 -- French Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian says Paris is not after providing the Ukrainian government with "lethal weapons."
EU Says 'Spiral Of Violence' in Ukraine Must Stop, Blames Rebels RFE/RL 04 Feb 2015 -- EU foreign-policy chief Federica Mogherini has said that the 'spiral of ever-increasing violence in eastern Ukraine needs to stop' and blamed pro-Russian rebels for a recent escalation that she said was causing 'great human suffering.'
Fighting For Debaltseve Persists Despite Ukraine Truce Call RFE/RL 04 Feb 2015 -- Fighting for control of the eastern Ukrainian town of Debaltseve continued despite a call by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) for a cease-fire to allow for the evacuation of civilians facing a 'catastrophic' situation in the besieged transport hub.
DPR: Kiev Plots Shelling Refugees Bus, Shift Bloodshed on Donetsk Sputnik 04 Feb 2015 -- Donetsk authorities have evidence pointing out at Kiev's plans to attack a bus with refugees from Debaltseve and use this provocative act to discredit pro-independence forces ahead of the Munich security conference, an official from the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) said Wednesday.
Defense Secretary Nominee Urges US to Supply Lethal Arms to Ukraine Sputnik 04 Feb 2015 -- US Defense Secretary nominee Ashton Carter favors sending lethal weapons to Ukraine, according to his Wednesday speech to the US Senate Armed Services Committee.
France Says No Plans to Supply Lethal Weapons to Ukraine at Present Sputnik 04 Feb 2015 -- France has no plans to deliver lethal weapons to Ukraine despite sharp deterioration of the situation in the crisis-hit country, Reuters reported Wednesday citing Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian.
Ukrainian Parliament Strips Yanukovych of Presidential Title Sputnik 04 Feb 2015 -- The Ukrainian parliament has stripped former President Viktor Yanukovych of his presidential title.
Luhansk Carries Out First Air Attack Against Kiev-Led Forces Sputnik 04 Feb 2015 -- Forces of the self-proclaimed Luhansk People's Republic in southeastern Ukraine have carried out its first airstrike against Kiev-led forces, a spokesperson for the militia headquarters said Wednesday.
Ukraine: Dangerous escalation in conflict proving catastrophic for civilians – Zeid UNOHCHR 03 Feb 2015 -- UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein on Tuesday urged all sides to halt the dangerous escalation in the fighting in eastern Ukraine. He called on States and all those with influence in the region to take measures to ensure full compliance with the Minsk accords, which have a direct bearing on the human rights situation in the east of the country.
E. Ukraine: 8 Killed in Fierce Fighting VOA 03 Feb 2015 -- Fresh fighting between Ukraine's military and pro-Russian separatists has killed at least eight civilians, officials in eastern Ukraine said Tuesday.
Pro-Russia forces say shot down Ukrainian fighter jet Iran Press TV 03 Feb 2015 -- The leader of Ukraine's self-proclaimed Lugansk People's Republic says pro-Russia forces have downed a Ukrainian military aircraft.
UN says death toll from conflict in east Ukraine exceeds 5,350 Iran Press TV 03 Feb 2015 -- The United Nations has expressed concern over civilian casualties in eastern Ukraine, announcing that the death toll from conflict in the region has exceeded 5,350.
UN Says Ukraine Death Toll Above 5,350 After Sharp Escalation RFE/RL 03 Feb 2015 -- A senior UN official says the death toll in the conflict in eastern Ukraine has reached at least 5,358 and urged all sides to halt a potentially 'catastrophic' escalation in fighting between government forces and Russian-backed separatists.
Merkel Calls For Peaceful Solution to Ukraine Crisis, Rules Out Lethal Aid Sputnik 03 Feb 2015 -- Chancellor Angela Merkel confirmed Tuesday that Germany will not provide weapons to Ukraine and will pursue a peaceful solution to the military conflict.
Donetsk Authorities Claim NATO Ammunition Found in Ukraine Sputnik 03 Feb 2015 -- The Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) forces has found ammunition used exclusively in NATO countries that the Ukrainian Army is not usually equipped with, Deputy Donetsk Militia Commander Eduard Basurin said Tuesday.
US Reportedly Considering Supplies of Javelin Antitank Missiles to Ukraine Sputnik 03 Feb 2015 -- The US government is considering providing Kiev with Javelin anti-tank missiles, ammunition and small arms to support its fight against independence supporters in eastern Ukraine, The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday, citing US officials.
Donetsk Military Claims Downed Ukrainian Plane, Helicopter Sputnik 03 Feb 2015 -- The Ukrainian military has lost a helicopter and an airplane in the country's eastern region of Donetsk, the Donetsk News Agency quoted a commander of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic's (DPR) Defense Ministry as saying Tuesday.
UN rights chief warns escalation in Ukraine fighting 'catastrophic' for country's civilians UN News Centre 03 Feb 2015 -- The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is proving "catastrophic" for the country's civilians amid escalating violence, indiscriminate shelling, and harsh winter conditions which have made life increasingly precarious for millions of civilians, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, warned today.
Providing Arms to Ukraine Complies With Minsk Agreement, State Dept. Claims Sputnik 02 Feb 2015 -- Providing the Ukrainian army with lethal aid would not violate the Minsk agreement, however, a decision on it has not yet been made by the White House, spokesperson for the US Department of State Jen Psaki said during the press briefing on Monday.
E. Ukraine Rebel Chief Calls for Broad Mobilization VOA 02 Feb 2015 -- A pro-Russian separatist leader in eastern Ukraine has announced a 'general mobilization' with the aim of bolstering separatist armed forces to as many as 100,000 fighters.
100,000 pro-Russia forces to join fight in east Ukraine Iran Press TV 02 Feb 2015 -- The leader of the pro-Russia forces in eastern Ukraine has announced that their side is to be reinforced by 100,000 more fighters by spring.
1,000s of Ukrainians flee eastern city of Debaltseve amid fighting Iran Press TV 02 Feb 2015 -- Thousands of Ukrainians have fled the city of Debaltseve in the eastern region of Donetsk, as Ukrainian government troops are fighting with pro-Russia forces to keep control of the key transport hub.
Ukraine Rebel Leader Vows To Mobilize 100,000 Men RFE/RL 02 Feb 2015 -- A pro-Russian separatist leader in eastern Ukraine has announced plans to mobilize 100,000 fighters against Ukrainian government forces amid intensified battles following the collapse of peace talks.
Explainer: As Ukraine Conflict Intensifies, So Does Debate On Providing Lethal Military Aid RFE/RL 02 Feb 2015 -- As the crisis in eastern Ukraine shows no sign of deescalating in the wake of a cease-fire agreement reached in September 2014, pressure is growing for Western countries to provide lethal military assistance to Ukraine and to ramp up their provision of nonlethal aid.
White House Reassessing Lethal Aid to Ukraine Sputnik 02 Feb 2015 -- The White House is assessing its policies regarding providing lethal and other military assistance to the government in Ukraine, a White House National Security Spokesperson told Sputnik on Monday, following the release of recommendations by a team of former top US officials calling for US government provisions of lethal and additional nonlethal aid to Kiev.
Kiev Using Compulsory Mobilization, Donetsk Recruiting Volunteers Sputnik 02 Feb 2015 -- The planned mobilization by the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic's (DPR) should be considered a 'recruitment of volunteers,' DPR leader Alexander Zakharchenko said Monday.
Donetsk Plans to Conscript 100,000 in General Mobilization Sputnik 02 Feb 2015 -- The self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) plans to hold a general mobilization in 10 days to recruit up to 100,000 people, DPR leader Alexander Zakharchenko said Monday.
Donetsk Insists Kiev Envoy to Contact Group Must Have Official Mandate Sputnik 02 Feb 2015 -- Kiev's envoy to the Contact Group talks on Ukraine reconciliation must have an official mandate and have the authority to sign documents on behalf of the Ukrainian government, a representative of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic at the talks said Monday.
Ukraine War Wounded Flood Civilian Hospitals VOA 01 Feb 2015 -- Dozens of injured Ukrainian troops arrive daily at the Central Hospital in the Donetsk region city of Artemivsk, 40 kilometers from the government-controlled town of Debaltseve, which has been under siege from pro-Russian rebels for the past week. The scene there is sometimes chaotic, always stressful and too often somber.
Ukraine Fighting Continues as Peace Talks Fail Again VOA 01 Feb 2015 -- Authorities in Kyiv say at least 13 Ukrainian soldiers, and seven civilians, have been killed over the past 24 hours in fighting in the eastern part of the country, following the collapse of peace talks aimed at de-escalating the crisis.
New round of peace talks on Ukraine crisis ends without deal People's Daily 01 Feb 2015 -- The latest round of peace talks on Ukraine crisis on Saturday ended in the Belarusian capital of Minsk without an agreement.
40 killed in east Ukraine clashes as Minsk truce talks fail Iran Press TV 01 Feb 2015 -- At least 40 more people have been killed in continued battle between the Ukrainian army and pro-Russia forces as renewed peace talks in Minsk failed to bear fruit.
Germany, France Call For Immediate Cease-Fire In Eastern Ukraine RFE/RL 01 Feb 2015 -- French President Francois Hollande, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko have called for 'an immediate cease-fire' in eastern Ukraine, a day after the latest peace talks collapsed.
Ukraine, Germany, France Say Contact Group Meetings Require No Precondition Sputnik 01 Feb 2015 -- The leaders of Ukraine, Germany and France agreed that the meetings of the Contact Group on Ukrainian reconciliation require no preliminary conditions, the press service of Ukrainian President Petro Peroshenko said Sunday.
Poroshenko, Merkel, Hollande Disappointed Over Lack of Minsk Talks Progress Sputnik 01 Feb 2015 -- The leaders of Ukraine, Germany and France expressed disappointment over the lack of progress during Minsk talks on Ukrainian reconciliation, the press service of Ukrainian President Petro Peroshenko said Sunday.
Ukraine Contact Group Fails to Sign Agreement, DPR, LPR Envoys Say Sputnik 01 Feb 2015 -- The negotiators of the Contact Group on Ukrainian reconciliation have failed to sign a final document on the results of the talks in Minsk, having only managed to voice their stances, representatives of the self-proclaimed people's republics of Donetsk and Luhansk (DPR and LPR) have announced.
Ukrainian Armed Forces Preparing New Offensive in Donbas, LPR Envoy Says Sputnik 01 Feb 2015 -- Kiev forces are preparing a new offensive in the southeast of Ukraine (Donbas), the envoy of the self-proclaimed Luhansk People's Republic (LPR) at the Minsk talks on Ukrainian reconciliation has announced.

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February 2015 - Ukraine Special Weapons News