Russian-backed separatists on Feb. 2 announced plans to boost their ranks facing government troops in Ukraine's breakaway east to 100,000 after the collapse of ceasefire talks. As the rebels continue to advance on Ukrainian positions, Alexander Zakharchenko, leader of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic, called for a draft within 10 days to "mobilise 100,000 people" to defend his separatist enclave and the Luhansk People's Republic nearby.
Russia's War Against Ukraine
Financial Times: Ukraine rebel leader orders military mobilisation
A pro-Russian separatist soldier stands guard at a checkpoint in Enakieve, 25 kilometers from the eastern Ukrainian city of Debaltseve, on Jan. 29, 2015.
