DONETSK, August 22. /ITAR-TASS/. The Russian humanitarian convoy has entered the territory of Ukraine and stopped at the Izvarino border checkpoint, ITAR-TASS reported from the scene.

The first group of trucks in the convoy numbers 32 vehicles, loaded with foodstuffs and essentials intended for population in south-east of Ukraine.

Meanwhile, a second group of 34 trucks is going through customs at Russia's Donetsk border checkpoint.

Russian customs personnel have begun procedures to clear the second batch of 34 trucks with relief supplies intended for residents of southeastern Ukraine, a Southern Customs Department spokesman said on Friday.

The parking area at the Donetsk checkpoint is available for the second batch of 34 trucks awaiting clearance as the first batch of 34 vehicles has crossed the border, he said.

The aid convoy includes about 270 trucks delivering 2,000 tons of basic necessities for southeast Ukraine residents. The Russian authorities said the cargo included 400 tons of grains, 100 tons of sugar, 62 tons of baby food, 54 tons of medicines and medical items, 12,000 sleeping bags and 69 mobile power generators.

The southeastern Ukrainian Donetsk and Luhansk regions have been the scene of fierce clashes between troops loyal to Kiev and local militias as the Ukrainian armed forces are conducting a military operation to regain control over the breakaway territories, which on May 11 proclaimed their independence at local referendums and now call themselves the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s republics.