(VOVworld) – Ukraine has rejected an initiative from the separatists in eastern region to create a safe corridor for government troops to withdraw from the encircled town of Debaltseve in eastern Ukraine, the focus of heavy fighting despite a ceasefire deal.

Military spokesman Vladislav Seleznyov said Debaltseve lies within territory under Ukrainian control in accordance with a ceasefire deal reached in Minsk. (photo: worldbulletin.net)

Military spokesman Vladislav Seleznyov said the town lies within territory under Ukrainian control in accordance with a ceasefire deal reached in Minsk last week and they will not leave. Kiev also announced not to withdraw heavy weapons if the independent forces continue to launch air strikes to break the cease fire.