Shelling still heard in Aleppo hours ahead of planned truce

Shelling could still be heard on Monday afternoon in the eastern rebel-held areas of the city of Aleppo in northern Syria, just hours ahead of a planned ceasefire mediated by the United States and Russia.

The sound of gunfire seemed to mean the clash was continuing even as the brokered ceasefire deal would enter into force at sundown Monday.

But the life in the government-controlled areas seemed normal, as people were anticipating the truce.

On early Saturday, the United States and Russia announced a landmark agreement on a nationwide ceasefire in Syria, which would start on the first day of the Muslim Eid al-Adha holiday.

The week-long truce also includes improving humanitarian aid access and a joint military operation against banned terrorist groups.

All ground attacks and airstrikes will be stopped, with free access allowed to besieged areas, including the northern city of Aleppo, according to the truce.

The Syrian government said it welcomes the deal brokered by the two countries.

Still, it wasn't clear if the ceasefire will give Aleppo a respite from shelling. Endit