Ukraine conflict: Twelve pro-Russian rebels killed in clashes at Donetsk airport …
Pro-Russian separatists have suffered their worst casualties since a ceasefire officially began on September 5, losing 12 men in attacks on buildings at Donetsk airport, Ukrainian military officials said.
The ceasefire in eastern Ukraine has become increasingly frayed in recent days, leading to the death of a number of civilians and soldiers as well as a Red Cross worker in the rebel stronghold of Donetsk.
“The airport of Donetsk remains the priority target for terrorists,” military spokesman Andriy Lysenko told journalists.
“Yesterday they resorted to a few, fortunately unsuccessful, attempts to storm it.
“Twelve [separatists] were killed during the attacks and that is the biggest single loss among rebels since September 5,” he added.
Mr Lysenko said two Ukrainian servicemen were killed during the past 24 hours, but he gave no further details.
Ukrainian officials accused Russian forces on Friday of helping separatists to step up pressure on government troops holding the airport in Donetsk, threatening the fragile ceasefire.
The latest UN estimate is that more than 3,500 people have died in the conflict which erupted after pro-Western leaders took power in Kyiv following street protests that chased Moscow-backed president Viktor Yanukovich from power.
Two children killed trying to move unexploded shell: authorities
Meanwhile, authorities said two children were killed and five were injured in rebel-controlled eastern Ukraine when they tried to move an unexploded shell.
The incident occurred late on Friday in Zugres, a town about 30 kilometres east of Donetsk.
“Seven schoolchildren found an unexploded shell,” said a statement on the website of pro-Kyiv Donetsk region administration.
“When they tried to relocate it it exploded. As a result two children died on the spot. Five more were injured and hospitalised.”
Reuters/AFP