Russia’s defence ministry has announced a temporary ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors for civilians from 10:00 Moscow time on Saturday from two cities in south-eastern Ukraine, Mariupol and Volnovakha.
Mariupol is a major port city and has been besieged by Russian forces for several days. There has also been heavy fighting in Volnovakha.
Earlier, the mayor of Mariupol appealed for civilians to be allowed to leave amid what he called a “blockade” by Russian forces.
Elsewhere, the fighting continues. Multiple explosions were heard in Kharkiv, in the north-east of Ukraine.
In the eastern city of Sumy, which is surrounded by Russian troops, shelling began, according to Ukrainian media.
