Ukraine rebels show weapons pullback; Kiev rejects 'empty words'

Trucks of the separatist self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic army towing mobile artillery cannons, are seen as they pull back from Donetsk, February 24, 2015. REUTERS/Baz Ratner

MAKIYVKA, Ukraine (Reuters) - Pro-Russia separatists brought reporters on Tuesday to witness the withdrawal of heavy weapons from the front line in east Ukraine under a ceasefire deal, but Ukraine said the rebels were using the cover of the truce to reinforce for another advance.

Fighting has eased in eastern Ukraine in recent days, raising hope that a ceasefire due to start on Feb. 15 can finally take effect after the rebels initially ignored it to storm a government-held town last week.