"In order to react appropriately to the actions of the terrorist groups, we keep reinforcing our positions almost in all combat zones. Besides, in our permanent disposition areas, we continue to restore our military units that have returned from the anti-terrorist operation zone. We are strengthening our troops, delivering weapons and equipment, coordinating actions," Poltorak said during a meeting of the Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council
In September 2014, the warring sides agreed to a ceasefire in Minsk, with the mediation of Russia and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), but have accused each other of violating the truce ever since, with intensity of fighting seeing another sharp increase in January.
The Saturday shelling of the Ukrainian southeastern city of Mariupol caused international condemnation and triggered renewed calls for an immediate ceasefire. At least 30 people are said to have been killed in the attacks.
