Dozens of charred bicycles in the rubble of a burnt-out sports shop in Slaviansk.

It's just one of many stores devastated after a week of shelling by Ukrainian troops.

The government in Kiev has launched a military operation to try to to win back control of this eastern city, taken over by pro-Russian separatists in April.

It's transformed Slaviansk, blowing out windows, gutting stores and burning cars.

(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) LOCAL RESIDENT, KATERINA, SAYING:

"In house number 44 a woman was killed. She came home, sat down on a bench and then she was blown to pieces. Her head blew into the shop and her intestines scattered all around. Two men were wounded and children have been killed. I don't know what to do with them [those who are shooting]. They should be put on trial in a court."

A few days ago, residents were defiant, carrying on their lives as best they could.

Now few people dare to walk in the open. Others have fled.

(SOUNDBITE) (Ru