Heavy clashes between Ukrainian army, pro-Russia forces

Heavy fighting between the Ukrainian army and pro-Russia forces continues for a fourth day, bringing the death toll to at least 19. Dozens of people were also wounded in exchanges of mortar and rocket fire near the flash-point eastern town of Avdiivka, north of the city of Donetsk. Thousands of locals have also been left without power in freezing conditions. Ukraine says it is preparing a possible evacuation of the town to avoid a humanitarian crisis. Each side blames the other for the upsurge in violence. The United Nations Security Council has voiced deep concern over the new flare-up of violence, calling on warring sides to halt the fighting. The violence has also set the alarm bells ringing in Europe. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe has called for a cessation of hostilities.

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