Ukraine Today: Mariupol defies Russian aggression; patriotic Ukrainians hold peace rally in Azov Sea port city

 The national colours of blue and yellow filled the central square. Many here covered flags with pro-unity and anti-war slogans. ‘Mariupol’s destiny depends on each of us’ reads one of the signs – another demands Russia should ‘wake up’. 

Despite the trilateral ceasefire between Ukraine, Russia and insurgents which is generally holding, residents here are taking no chances. Bomb shelters are being fitted out with beds and water supplies in case Kremlin-backed forces launch a military attack on the city.