DHAKA: The Ukrainian military says one of its helicopters has been shot down by pro-Russian rebels in the east, killing all nine people on board.

It says the Mi-8 helicopter was hit by a rocket shortly after take-off outside the rebel-held city of Sloviansk.

It comes a day after the rebels vowed to observe a ceasefire until Friday, in response to a government peace plan, says BBC. 

But Ukraine's president said he may end it due to constant violation by rebels who are controlled from abroad.

BDST: 0918 HRS, JUN 25, 2014