BBC News reports that “about 1,300 troops from 15 countries – including the US and other Nato members – have begun a military exercise near Lviv in western Ukraine.”  

“The US says the drill had been planned before the current crisis in eastern Ukraine, where government forces have been battling pro-Russian rebels.”  

“Clashes have continued in eastern Ukraine, particularly around the city of Donetsk, despite a ceasefire deal.”