Ukrainian soldiers depart from Debaltseve following an aggressive assault

Photo: Reuters

Ukrainian forces were leaving the eastern town on Wednesday, after a terrible assault by pro-Russians, which Kiev and Europe said violated an already disintegrating ceasefire. A ceasefire to curb the 10-month long conflict in the eastern region was negotiated by Ukraine, Russia, France and Germany, which rebels said did not apply on Debaltseve, a transport hub in the eastern town.

Ukraines President Petro Poroneshko confirmed that more than 80% of their troops had retreated from Debaltseve following a heavy bombardment and street-by-street battles. Poroshenko and the West say the rebel assault is being reinforced by Russian tanks, artillery and soldiers, though Moscow denied sending forces to join the battle for a region that President Vladimir Putin has called “New Russia”, reported Reuters.

Russian President Vladmit Putin refused to back off, on Tuesday, calling the pro-Ukrainian soldiers to leave the town, following which the withdrawal commenced. Reuters reported, Pro-Kiev commanders said some forces had pulled out, but there were reports of continued fighting in the town. A Reuters correspondent near Debaltseve saw black smoke rising over the town and heard loud blasts hours after the withdrawal began.

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