Russian rebels to allow Ukrainian troops safe exit

Heeding a request by Russian President Vladimir Putin, pro-Moscow rebels fighting in eastern Ukraine say they will allow Ukrainian troops who they've trapped, to leave the area safely through a humanitarian corridor.

The announcement seems to fly in the face of recent developments- namely claims by Ukrainian officials that Russian troops are indeed on the ground in Ukraine.

Although Russia has so far denied direct involvement, the West and its allies have no shortage of criticism.

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

(SOUNDBITE)(English) AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER TONY ABOTT SAYING:

" it seems that Russia is now stepping out of the shadows and overtly trying to achieve its objects of domination in Ukraine and it is completely, absolutely and utterly unacceptable."

During a security council meeting at the United Nations headquarters in New York, U.S. Ambassador Samantha Power exchanged barbs with her Russian counterpart.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) U