In order to avert a humanitarian catastrophe, pro-Russia separatists in Ukraine have called for a ceasefire in Donetsk region.
The new rebel leader, Aleksandr Zakharchenko, made the announcement after the separatists declared that they had seized control of a key city and encircled Donetsk, reported the BBC.
Meanwhile, Russia has offered to send a humanitarian mission to Ukraine, a day after it was warned by the western nations of using the mission to send troops.
About 1,500 people have died in the conflict that began four months ago.
