DONETSK, July 19 (RIA Novosti) – Self-defense militia of People’s Republic of Donetsk observes government forces massing near its western borders, a representative of independence supporters said Saturday citing commander Igor Strelkov.
“It looks like they [Ukrainian troops] are up for the assault on Donetsk,” the source said
“[Donetsk] airport came under mortar fire, there was a powerful detonation,” he added.
According to Strelkov’s representative, Ukrainian army attacked the outskirts of Donetsk with tanks and four Grad rocket launchers.
“There are casualties among the civilians,” militia’s representative stated.
The number of those deceased is yet unknown as the rescue operation is halted due to the ongoing fighting.
Earlier Friday, despite the truce announced by the sides due to the investigation of the Malaysian plane crash, intensive clashes continued in the districts to the south of Donetsk. Self-defense forces also resumed the shooting on the airport where a group of Ukrainian servicemen still remains.
