Donetsk, Feb 12 - DAN. Two Donetsk People’s Republic militiamen were killed in shelling by Kiev forces over the past 24 hours, DPR People’s Militia spokesman Daniil Bezsonov said on Tuesday.

“Two our defenders died in the line of duty in treacherous shelling by Ukrainian gunmen,” Bezsonov said. “We convey our heartfelt condolences to the families of the dead.”

He urged international organisations such as the OSCE to “firmly denounce Ukraine’s criminal acts and prevent possible escalation of the conflict.”

Over the past 24 hours, Ukrainian forces violated the ceasefire 24 times, firing 289 rounds at DPR areas.*jk