Ukraine separatists down army helicopter, 14 killed
- 10 years ago
Preparing the coffins as the death toll mounts in Ukraine.
After weeks of Kiev accusing Russia of involvement in the uprising, a rebel leader admits that some fighters who died in a fierce government offensive had been "volunteers" from Russia.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) PRO-RUSSIAN SEPARATIST MILITANT, 'VARAN', SAYING:
"I can only say that I hope Ukraine makes up its mind and will not bring its troops into the city. Especially when the city is surrounded by the Ukrainian troops, which could be enough. If they want a war it will be a slaughter from both sides."
There are losses on all sides.
Acting Ukrainian President Oleksander Turchinov confirms that at least 14 Ukrainian soldiers were killed Thursday, when pro-Russian separatists shot down an army helicopter.
(SOUNDBITE) (Ukrainian) ACTING UKRAINIAN PRESIDENT, OLEKSANDER TURCHINOV, SAYING:
"I have just received information from the area near Slaviansk that terrorists with Russian weapons PZRK hav
After weeks of Kiev accusing Russia of involvement in the uprising, a rebel leader admits that some fighters who died in a fierce government offensive had been "volunteers" from Russia.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) PRO-RUSSIAN SEPARATIST MILITANT, 'VARAN', SAYING:
"I can only say that I hope Ukraine makes up its mind and will not bring its troops into the city. Especially when the city is surrounded by the Ukrainian troops, which could be enough. If they want a war it will be a slaughter from both sides."
There are losses on all sides.
Acting Ukrainian President Oleksander Turchinov confirms that at least 14 Ukrainian soldiers were killed Thursday, when pro-Russian separatists shot down an army helicopter.
(SOUNDBITE) (Ukrainian) ACTING UKRAINIAN PRESIDENT, OLEKSANDER TURCHINOV, SAYING:
"I have just received information from the area near Slaviansk that terrorists with Russian weapons PZRK hav