Ukrainian forces are reported to have repelled two fresh assaults by pro-Russian rebels on the airport in the eastern city of Donetsk.

The strategic site has become the centre of battles in recent days . Despite the violence there the European security monitors from the OSCE say the cease-fire signed September 5 is mostly holding.

On Sunday nine Ukraine soldiers are said to have been killed when separatist shelling hit their armoured vehicle making it he largest lost of life among Ukrainian soldiers in a single incident since the ceasefire came into force.

European Union diplomats, meanwhile have decided to keep sanctions on Russia in place while the truce deal is still being implemented.

According to NATO Russia still has hundreds of troops in Ukraine despite a “significant” force withdrawal.

Russia denies having any military presence within Ukraine.