Fifty tanks, 40 missile systems crossed from Russia into east Ukraine overnight, Ukrainian military says

Around 50 tanks, 40 missile systems and 40 armoured vehicles crossed overnight into east Ukraine from Russia via Izvaryne border crossing into the separatist Luhansk region, a Kiev military spokesman said on Thursday.

"The enemy continues to strengthen its forces in the most dangerous areas, especially in north-east Luhansk region and in the direction of Debaltseve," spokesman Andriy Lysenko said in a daily briefing, referring to a strategic transport hub that has been the focus of heavy fighting in recent weeks.

He said the tanks and other military hardware had crossed the border "despite statements by Russian officials about the absence of Russian military equipment and forces on Ukrainian territory."

Also Read: Europe shares rise after Putin says Ukraine deal reached