Russia Steps Up Deadly Assault on Key Eastern Ukrainian Town

Russian military continues fierce assault on eastern Ukrainian town of Avdiivka for 5th straight day. Shelling so intense, emergency crews unable to recover dead.

Fighting has intensified along 1,000-km front line. Ukrainian commanders say clashes have "significantly worsened" in some areas.

Avdiivka head says Russian strikes hitting town with everything they have - artillery, aircraft, multiple rocket launchers. All rescue operations halted.

Ukraine says Avdiivka important to Russia to show some kind of victory, as they have no other options. Russian forces increasing there for 4 days.

Ukraine making slow gains in counteroffensive in east near Bakhmut and in south toward Sea of Azov. But advances incremental as Russia regroups after losses.