Anti-Kyiv rebels launch new offensive in restive east
Anti-Kyiv rebels have launched a fresh offensive against government forces, forcing many villagers to flee the area. As our correspondent Kate Parkinson reports from Donetsk, the renewed clashes appear to have ended all hope of enforcing the ceasefire signed in September.
As we drive through rebel territory, a column of tanks trundles past.
The rebels have launched a new offensive. This village sits on the frontline and the shelling is constant as the rebels try to expand their control and Kyiv’s forces try to hold their positions.
The commander says his forces control 90% of the village. But their enemy is close, just 300 metres away…and they have snipers, he says.
With close combat in the streets and both sides shelling each other daily, most of the village’s residents have fled. But with a steely determination, Raya tells me she is staying, this is her home, she says, and she will not be forced out of it.
Outside the commander tells us not to go any further. They don’t know where the shells will land. But the sound of incoming artillery fire is unmistakeable.