Ukraine’s president congratulated his military on taking back separatist-held cities and towns in eastern Ukraine. As militants are building barricades in two of the region’s largest cities in preparation for what could be their last stand.

Having called off a ten-day on-and-off ceasefire, Poroshenko has resumed a military offensive that looks destined to reach Donetsk, eastern Ukraine’s most densely populated city. But Poroshenko says he wants to spare the city, if he can.

He says he is open to a peaceful resolution with separatist leaders, but insists that the rebels must first lay down their arms. CCTV’s Stephanie Freid reports from Kiev.

Ukraine military takes back separetist-held cities

Ukraine's president congratulated his military on taking back separatist-held cities and towns in eastern Ukraine. As militants are building barricades in two of the region's largest cities in preparation for what could be their last stand. CCTV's Stephanie Freid reports from Kiev.