Russia steps up attacks on Avdiivka in east Ukraine

Russia has stepped up attacks on the shattered eastern Ukrainian frontline town of Avdiivka, its mayor said Thursday. The industrial town near the Russian-held regional stronghold of Donetsk has faced a fierce onslaught for more than a month. “It is very hot. Indeed, in the last few days, the enemy has become more active,” Vitaliy Barabash said on national television.