LUGANSK, Ukraine
At least 16 people have been killed in intense fighting between Ukrainian security forces and pro-Russia separatists in the eastern city of Lugansk, rebels said.
16 people including three women were killed and 66 others were wounded as a result of clashes in the city during the last 24 hours, the press office of the separatist-controlled Lugansk City Council said Saturday.
There was no indication if the casualties were civilians, rebels or Ukrainian troops.
Unrest in the eastern and southern cities of Ukraine has torn the region apart since February, when demonstrations by pro-Russian and anti-government groups escalated into an armed separatist movement, which was met by a Ukrainian government counterattack.
A ten-day ceasefire ended June 30, followed by Ukrainian troops re-launching their operation against secessionists mainly in Lugansk and Donetsk.
www.aa.com.tr/en
