CRI听力:New Minsk Peace Talks Planned over Ukraine

Ukrainian forces remain in control of the strategic railway hub of Debaltseve in the east of the country, despite intense shelling by rebels.

Government troops say they haven't suffered any casualties so far.

The commander of the 25th volunteer battalion "Kievska Rus", who goes by the name "Vysota," explains the situation.

"We didn't have any direct encounters (with the rebels) today but our position was shelled by mortars and one particular position was fired at with GRAD rockets. Fortunately no one was killed, but the situation is rather difficult, but we will overcome it."

Ukrainian tanks, Armoured Personnel Carriers, and howitzers could be seen moving toward Debaltseve, while several wounded Ukrainian soldiers were taken to hospital in a nearby town.

Separatists have intensified their shelling of government forces on all front lines and appear to be amassing forces for a new offensives on Debaltseve and the coastal city of Mariupol, according to Ukraine's military.

Meanwhile, this week, the leaders of Germany, France, Russia and Ukraine are preparing for a possible summit in Minsk to discuss a new peace plan for Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin says the meeting may happen on Wednesday if both sides agree on a number of issues.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel says it is uncertain whether further negotiations would lead to a deal with Putin.

However, she argued that all opportunities for a diplomatic solution should be pursued.

For more on this, CRI's John Artman spoke to Feng Zhongping, Vice President, China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations.

More than 5,000 civilians, Ukrainian soldiers and pro-separatist fighters have been killed since a separatist rebellion erupted in Ukraine's eastern territories in April.