Ukrainian officials are struggling to evacuate people from the city of Mariupol. Russian President Vladimir Putin has promised to provide safe passage for civilians. But the Ukrainians say Russian troops are still carrying out attacks.

The Russians pledged a 3-day ceasefire during the daytime at a besieged steel plant in the city. Hundreds of people remain trapped inside. The Russian military said they would allow civilians to evacuate safely. But the Ukrainians say that is not happening.

Sviatoslav Palamar, deputy commander of the Azov Battalion, said, "For the third day in a row, the enemy has broken through ... onto the territory of the plant. Heavy, bloody fighting continues."

The Ukrainian public broadcaster reported that at least 25 civilians were wounded in an attack in the eastern region of Donetsk on Thursday. The report says another attack killed five civilians in neighboring Luhansk.

Meanwhile, Ukraine's president is pleading for more help from the world. The country launched a global crowdfunding platform to back the fight against Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, "Ukraine is fighting not only for its own freedom but for the freedom of the whole democratic world. We will always remember your contribution to the victory of Ukraine, to the victory of freedom."

In Russia, military personnel have been rehearsing for a parade set for next Monday to celebrate the former Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two.

Analysts say Ukrainians fear the anniversary will lead Russia to mount a final push to try and seize control of Mariupol.