Violence in Ukraine critical despite ceasefire deal

Pro-Russian rebels have released dozens of captured Ukrainian prisoners of war as part of a ceasefire deal.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said 73 soldiers were released in Donetsk.

But despite the ceasefire, violence continued to flare in the volatile region.

As shelling rocked the city throughout yesterday, local officials described the situation as "critical".

President Poroshenko spoke with German Chancellor Angela Merkel over concerns that the ceasefire deal brokered earlier this month is being violated.

A statement from Mr Poroshenko's office said they agreed to make further efforts to settle the situation peacefully.

Source: CNN