Latest clashes claim seven lives in eastern Ukraine

The latest clashes in eastern Ukraine have claimed the lives of more civilians and soldiers amid an escalation of fighting in the region.

Pro-Russia forces said shelling by the Ukrainian military had claimed the lives of two civilians in Donetsk on Friday.

Ukrainian authorities said three soldiers were killed in other parts of the region.

Near the town of Avdiivka, located just north of Donetsk, Ukraine's army said a woman and an emergency worker were also killed as Ukrainian soldiers and pro-Russians exchanged fire using mortars and rockets.

Nearly 30 people have been killed in eastern Ukraine's fighting since January 27, when tension rose again.

SS