A convoy of trucks carrying Russian aid sets off towards the border with Ukraine.

But while the white line snaking its way along the highway can't be missed its final destination is still unclear.

Russia says the trucks contain food, water bottles and generators to be distributed in eastern Ukraine where firece battles have erupted between the government and pro-Russian rebels seeking independence.

Residents who've been trapped in the crossfire for four months are desperate for aid like this.

But the Ukrainian government is wary. Kiev accuses Russia of supporting and arming the rebels with tanks, missiles and other weapons.

Moscow denies this and dismisses claims the convoy is a pretext to send military supplies to the rebels, who now appear to be on the verge of defeat by Ukrainian forces.

The 260 trucks first rumbled out of Moscow on Tuesday then spent time in the Russian town of Voronezh.

Dozens of them appear to be staying and it's not kno