Ukraine crisis: ‘Dozens killed’ in east as Minsk talks open

A Ukrainian soldier examines a crater after shelling near Debaltseve. Photo: 29 January 2015

Ukrainian troops are trying to defend the key transport hub of Debaltseve

At least 40 people have been reported killed as fighting between Ukrainian troops and pro-Russian rebels rages on in the east of the country.

Ukrainian officials say 15 soldiers and 12 civilians died in the past 24 hours. The rebels report 13 casualties.

The separatists also claim to have seized the town of Vuhlehirsk and surrounded the key hub of Debaltseve, but the Ukrainian military denies this.

Meanwhile, urgent truce talks began in Minsk, the capital of Belarus.

Representatives of Ukraine and Russia, as well as rebel envoys and members the Organization for Security and Co-operation (OSCE), are taking part in the meeting.

They are due to discuss proposals for an immediate ceasefire, a pullout of heavy weapons from the line of contact and a prisoner exchange.

The recent heavy fighting has left a September ceasefire – also agreed in Minsk – in tatters.

‘Displacement and suffering’

The latest report on the situation in the conflict zone stood in stark contrast to the concept of a ceasefire.

On Saturday, Ukrainian Defence Minister Stepan Poltorak told reporters that “15 soldiers were killed and another 30 injured” during the fighting on the “whole line of contact” in the past 24 hours.

BBC

 

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