Pro-Russia rebels in Ukraine call for a ceasefire in Donetsk

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.