Russia called on Ukrainian forces in Mariupol to lay down their arms, saying a terrible humanitarian catastrophe was unfolding as it said defenders who did so were guaranteed safe passage.
The renewed fire comes as several world leaders - including US President Joe Biden - are about to descend on Brussels to discuss what to do regarding the invasion of Ukraine.
Ukraine s Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Russia of abducting children and warned the alleged deportations are a gross violation of in particular international humanitarian law.
More than 1,300 people, including women and babies, are still feared trapped in the bombed ruins of the theatre as rescue efforts are hampered by constant Russian shelling.