Pro-Russia separatists called for a truce after the Ukraine military government tightened their forces that surrounded the rebel stronghold of Donetsk and began firing on Sunday.

As the govenrment shelling continues, many civilians were reported wounded and even killed overnight.

Some reports said that at least one person was killed while 10 others were injured. About 30 apartment blocks were reportedly hit by the shelling including 10 residential buildings, a hospital and a shop that were severely damaged.

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However, Ukrainian military spokesman Andriy Lysenko said a ceasefire would only be possible if the rebels will surrender, showing white flags and taking down their weapons.

Alexander Zakharchenko, the prime minister of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic, said they are ready and open for a truce to stop an increasing humanitarian devastation.

But Zakharchenko' statement ran contrary to what is taking place on the ground. The separatists are still defiant and said that as long as the Ukrainian army continue their military action, there can be no possible ceasefire.

There is no response yet from the Kiev about the call for a truce. Reports said Ukraine is not yet sure about Zakharchenko’s motive for offering a break in fighting.

Meanwhile, some reports said the request for truce could be aimed at pressuring Ukraine forces to allow humanitarian aid to be brought in.

There is no clear indication yet about the casualties of the fighting over the weekend. Based on some reports, Lysenko said that the separatists are in panic and in total chaos. The Ukrainian military is continuing to tightened their offensive operations around the Donetsk capital.

Donetsk, a city with nearly one million population, is facing scarcity of food, water, and experiencing lack of electricity. Medicine were also limited after it was being cut off from normal commerce. Most shops and banks are closed and fuel supplies had run out as well.

TagsUkraine war, pro-Russia separatists, kiev government, Rebels