Ukraine Troops Move on Rebel Stronghold Defying Putin

Ukraine sent armored vehicles and artillery to retake Slovyansk, a stronghold for pro-separatist forces, defying President Vladimir Putin’s demand to pull back troops with Russia’s army massed across the border.
Interior Ministry forces were dispatched at 4:30 a.m. local time to drive out militants and free hostages, including eight international monitors, minister Arsen Avakov said on Facebook. Rebels shot down two helicopters, killing two pilots, the Defense Ministry said. Acting Ukrainian President Oleksandr Turchynov said in a statement “many” rebels were killed, wounded or captured.’’ The United Nations Security Council is preparing to hold an emergency meeting at Russia’s request. 
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-02/ukraine-defies-putin-as-troops-move-on-rebel-stronghold.html