Ukraine is accusing Russian-backed rebels of destroying their ceasefire agreement by seizing the town Vladimir Putin wanted them to capture. Pro-Moscow separatists claim to have captured 80 per cent of Debaltseve and to have taken at least 300 government soldiers prisoner as fierce fighting raged in the eastern Ukrainian town yesterday. Eyewitnesses said artillery rounds were hitting the town every five seconds and smoke rose skywards as unguided Grad rockets landed. Battle: A view of an explosion caused by shelling is seen not far from Debaltseve yesterday morning Fire: Shelling was reported close to the town of Debaltseve, with rebels claiming to have captured the majority of the town, despite the Ukrainian government insisting it is still in control
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Shelling was reported close to key transport hub Debaltseve yesterday
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Pro-Russian rebels claim to have captured the town, despite the Ukrainian government insisting it is still in control
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Both sides are demanding control of Debaltseve before ceasefire can begin
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But Ukraine military spokesman Andriy Lysenk insists troops will withdraw
The ministry said street fighting continued in @placeholder, which has been the epicenter of fighting in the past two weeks.