DHAKA: Pro-Russian rebels released dozens of captive Ukrainian troops Sunday as part of a ceasefire deal, CNN reports. 

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said in a Twitter post that 73 troops were released in Donetsk.

But despite the ceasefire, violence continued to flare in the volatile region.

As shelling rocked the city throughout the day Sunday, local officials described the situation as "critical”.

Six civilians died and 15 were injured as the result of shelling, Donetsk’s city office said on Monday.

BDST: 1340 HRS, SEP 16, 2014