DONETS - Red tape is preventing war-weary civilians from fleeing relentless shelling in this rebel stronghold.
The Ukrainian government recently introduced new rules forcing anyone who wants to travel to or from regions held by pro-Russian separatists to apply for permission. Those seeking to leave or enter conflict-affected areas must provide documents such as passports and evidence showing why they need to travel through the checkpoints. The process can take up to 10 days - leaving people trapped and in limbo in places like rebel-held Donetsk.
