Ukraine Moves on Rebels as Obama, Merkel See Sanctions

Ukraine sent armored vehicles and artillery to retake Slovyansk, a separatist stronghold, as President Barack Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel set a May 25 trigger for possible economic sanctions against Russia.

Forces were dispatched to Slovyansk to drive out pro-Russian militants and free hostages, Interior Minister Arsen Avakov said. 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. In Odessa, dozens died after a trade-union building was set afire, the Interior Ministry said.