Ukraine 'In Military Assault On Slavyansk'

Ukrainian forces have launched a "large-scale operation" to retake the town of Slavyansk, according to pro-Russian separatists.

A Reuters photographer said he saw a military helicopter open fire on the outskirts of the town and a reporter heard gunfire.

Separatists said one military helicopter has been shot down.

In Kiev, an aide to Ukrainian Interior Minister Arsen Avakov said he could not comment.

"Until it's over, no one will say anything," he said.

The action in Slavyansk, if confirmed, would mark the first significant military response by Kiev.

Vyacheslav Ponomarev, the insurgency-appointed mayor of Slavyansk, said self-defence forces had shot down two helicopters and taken one pilot hostage.

He said no Ukrainian troops could be seen in the city.

An APTN cameraman reported seeing black plumes of smoke on the edge of the city.

The apparent move to retake Slavyansk came only hours after Russia staged a huge May Day parade on Moscow's Red Square on Thursday.

It is the first since the Soviet era - with workers holding banners proclaiming support for President Vladimir Putin after the seizure of territory from neighbouring Ukraine.

Ukrainian officials have been criticised for being slow to act to stop the rebels seizing swathes of its Donbass coal and steel belt.

They launched an "anti-terrorist" operation in early April but have resisted large-scale measures so far.

Armed groups seeking union with Russia have seized a number of government buildings in towns in eastern Ukraine.

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