EU calls for immediate withdrawal of heavy arms in Ukraine

The European Union calls for the immediate pull-back of heavy weapons from the frontline in eastern Ukraine and voices concern about the surge in fighting in a key flashpoint town.

“We recall once again the need for all sides to adhere strictly to the provisions of the package signed last week and carry out its measures without delay,” European Commission spokeswoman Catherine Ray says at a press briefing.

Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian rebels have “to stop any military operation and to start the withdrawing today of heavy weaponry”, she says, referring to a key provision of the shaky truce signed last week.

“We remain concerned about the continued fighting in and around Debaltseve,” Ray said after street battles erupted for the first time in the besieged eastern Ukrainian town.

— AFP