KIEV (AFP) – A strategic port of some 500,000 residents before the Ukraine crisis, Mariupol is the largest remaining government-held city in east Ukraines conflict zone and seen as a likely target for any new pro-Russian rebel offensive.Fighting has rumbled on around the city since it was retaken by Ukrainian forces in June, and Kiev has accused pro-Moscow forces of massing heavy weapons there despite a supposed ceasefire.Here are the factors underlying its importance:- Last government stronghold -==============================Mariupol — some 55 kilometres (35 miles) from the Russian border — is the biggest city still in Kievs hands in the conflict …read more
Source: Dunya TV
