Donetsk, Dec 19 – DAN. Ukrainian army command deliberately escalated the situation along the contact line, the intensification of fighting in Debaltsevo and in DPR south proves it, said DPR Operations Command deputy commander Colonel Eduard Basurin.
"Ukrainian military and political authorities still try to destabilize the situation in Donbass, despite the ceasefire responsibilities assumed under the Minsk Agreements."
Basurin reminded that yesterday, December 18, Kiev forces launched an offensive in Debaltsevo area, in vicinity of Kalinovka village. They also continue massive shelling of Kominternovo, Leninskoye and Sakhanka in DPR south, he said.
On December 18 the Ukrainian army attempted to break through DPR and LPR defense lines in vicinity of Debaltsevo. A reconnaissance squad advanced supported by artillery, and Kiev forces intensified fire. DPR and LPR militia managed to foil the attack, Ukrainian armed forces casualties amounted to 10 killed and over 20 wounded; two armored personnel carriers were destroyed. *ot