Ukrainian authorities say Russia is not observing a temporary ceasefire that was agreed in two cities.

Russia’s defence ministry had said its forces would stop firing to allow  humanitarian corridors out of Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha.

“We are negotiating with the Russian side to confirm the ceasefire along the entire evacuation route,” it said in a statement.

The route of the corridor is Mariupol - Nikolske - Rozivka - Polohy - Orikhiv - Zaporizhzhia.

Authorities had previously urged civilians to leave, with mayor Vadim Boichenko saying on Telegram: “When our home city is constantly under the ruthless fire of the occupiers there is no choice other than to allow residents – us – to leave Mariupol safely.”