Ukrainian forces and rebels clash ahead of ceasefire.
Ukraine says its forces are trying to repel a major rebel offensive to take Mariupol, a port city of about 500 inhabitants on the shores of the Sea of Azov, crucial for its iron exports; Ukrainian and Russian representatives are negotiating a ceasefire as a first step towards a more comprehensive peace plan.
By Aleksandar Vasovic and Gabriela Baczynska
MARIUPOL/DONETSK Ukraine (Reuters) Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian rebels clashed on Friday east of the strategic port of Mariupol, hours before Ukrainian and Russian representatives were expected to announce a ceasefire as a first step toward a broader peace plan.
Gunfire was also heard again in Donetsk, the main rebel stronghold in eastern Ukraine, near the city's airport, which remains under government control.
Ukraine says its forces are trying to repel a major rebel offensive to take Mariupol, a port city of about 500 people on the shores of the Sea of Azov, crucial for its iron exports. The port lies almost halfway between Russia and the Crimean region, annexed by the Russians.
"Our artillery has arrived and is being mobilized against the rebels," Mariupol Mayor Yuri Khotlubey told Ukrainian TV channel 112.