Ukraine violence flares as ceasefire collapses

(CNN){ — Gunfire crackles and flames scar battlefields in eastern Ukraine — signs, officials warn, of a crumbling ceasefire in the volatile region.}

And there’s new fear that the long simmering battle may be about to explode to a deadly new level.

Gen. Philip M. Breedlove, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe, said he’s concerned about the escalating violence and accused Moscow of violating the norms of Western civilization.

“The ceasefire is in name only at this point,” he told reporters Tuesday. “The violence continues to increase day by day.”