The first snow has fallen in eastern Ukraine, signalling the start of the second winter on the frontline for "Benya" and some of his fellow fighters. The first winter was harsh, and although the troops have since learnt how to manage better, particularly by installing heating, the plummeting temperatures bring tough fighting conditions with them. "It’s hard to get to the firing position, and then it’s also hard to leave after we’ve worked," Benya tells AFP, adding: "now there is mud, then there will be snow, and people are freezing and getting sick." SOUNDBITES