Heavy shelling in Avdiivka in east Ukraine has left thousands of people without electricity, heating and water for days.<br /><br /> Amid an upsurge in fighting with pro-Russian separatists Ukrainian officials are preparing for a possible evacuation of the city. Avdiivka is a key strong-hold for Kyiv close to rebel-held Donetsk.<br /><br /> Both government forces and pro-Russian separatists suffered casualties as fighting escalated in violation of a ceasefire, and each side blames the other for the flare-up in violence.<br /><br /> A peace deal was struck in February 2015, but international monitors report violations on a daily basis.<br /><br /> The latest clashes mark a significant escalation and come after Donald Trump and the Russian president held their first phone call.<br /><br /> Ukraine is concerned that Trump’s ties to Moscow may weaken international pressure on Russia over its actions in Ukraine.<br />
