Estonia's third largest city, the predominantly Russian-speaking Narva, has rejected a call for aid, sent by the separatist forces in Donetsk.

“We call upon you and the entire world to pay attention to the crimes the Ukrainian authorities are committing against the peaceful residents of the Donetsk republic. The Donets Basin is yet to be forced on its knees by anyone, and will never be forced!” the head of the town of Donetsk said.

The letter was sent to 13 twin and 10 partner towns of Donetsk, including Narva, Põhjarannik reported.

Narva officials said the situation is delicate but since Narva signed the partnership agreement with the Donetsk city of Ukraine, there is no mandate to open communications with the new powers.

Vjatšeslav Konovalov, a Narva official, said it is a different matter if Narva can do something for the local people who suffer in Donetsk.