Ukrainian soldiers encircled by Russian forces in the key eastern city of Pokrovsk have started surrendering, the defence ministry in Moscow claims.

But Ukraine 's military has pushed back on the report by the TASS state news agency, saying the situation is "difficult and dynamic".

Kyiv has also claimed its positions in some districts of Pokrovsk have improved despite its city being infiltrated by Russian troops.

Latest: Russian attacks are 'nuclear terrorism', Ukraine warns

Ukraine is increasing its number of assault troops in the area, the 7th Rapid Response Corps said on Facebook.

And Ukrainian troops are also working to cut Moscow's military logistics routes, it added.

The Russian defence ministry also said its forces defeated a team of Ukrainian special forces that heade

See Full Page