The Ukrainian military forces sent to free Slavyansk from pro-Russian militants are retreating. The corresponding decision was made by the Ukrainian Security Service after the troops failed to fight their way to the town.
Russia reacted to the offensive by ordering mass war games near the Ukrainian borders. According to Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu, Russia has to respond to the moves made by the authorities in Kyiv.
The situation in Eastern Ukraine remains tense as pro-Russian armed groups control public building in Lugansk, Donetsk and several smaller cities.
