Ceasefire plea

International security and aid organisations appealed to Ukraine and Russian-backed separatists yesterday to withdraw from front lines where fighting has dramatically escalated or risk a humanitarian disaster. Since January 29, shelling on both sides of the front line near the governmentheld town of Avdiyivka has been heavier than at any time since last year. Damage to utilities infrastructure has left thousands of people with little or no access to electricity or water in sub-zero winter temperatures.